Reducing Surgical Site Infections
Published on in CHOP News
Why is this important?
Any time a surgical incision is made on a patient’s skin at time of surgery, there is a potential risk of surgical site infection (SSI). SSIs can be associated with longer hospital stays, slower healing, increased hospital costs, and can require additional surgery. CHOP has focused efforts on reducing these types of infections.
What we did
CHOP has taken steps to reduce the amount of bacteria on patients’ skin before surgery. This has involved extensive work with staff, patients and families to promote education around hand hygiene and bathing procedures prior to surgery. Additionally, education around post-operative incisional care on how to keep surgical wounds free of bacteria have also contributed to our success.
Summary of results
As a result of these efforts, there has been a significant decrease in the rate of surgical site infections over the last two years.
The rate of SSI decreased by nearly 30 percent, resulting in fewer patients having these infections.
Published: April 2019