Infection Control

Overcome challenges to reduce surgical site infections

Briefings on Infection Control, March 1, 2009

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After reading this article, you will be able to:

  • Identify five barriers to reducing surgical site infections
  • Recognize the importance of interaction between ICPs and perioperative nurses

The operating room (OR) can be a world unto itself. It’s physically separated from the rest of the hospital, entry is restricted to authorized and properly attired personnel, and the OR often has a unique culture, says Linda Greene, RN, MPS, CIC, director of infection prevention at Rochester (NY) General Health System. As a result, the OR can be an intimidating place for ICPs—also known as infection preventionists, or IPs— to visit.

But to get a handle on surgical site infections (SSI), ICPs must be regularly present in the OR and forge strong bonds with OR staff members and surgeons. Perioperative nurses in particular can be important allies for ICPs.

However, several barriers may strain interactions between OR staff members and ICPs. The following are the five top challenges ICPs may encounter as they try to reduce SSIs and tips for overcoming them:

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