320 Surgical Site Infections (SSIs)- Are you doing your part to prevent them?

Abstract

Abstract Aims (1) To evaluate the current literature regarding prevention of surgical site infections (SSIs). (2) To assess our General Surgery department SSI rate. (3) To implement changes within the department that are reflective of current evidence/guidance. (4) To re-audit our SSI rate post implementation of changes. Methods Evaluated and summarised 3 studies published in 2022 relating to the use of surgical care bundles to reduce SSIs. Collected post- operative laparotomy data within 2022; primary outcome SSI prior to discharge. Secondary outcomes: organism grown on wound culture, prolongation of hospital stay and other hospital acquired infections. Trust data and literature review presented a local department meeting. Consultant Surgeon cohort concluded which changes were to be implemented (pre-closure glove change, new closure equipment set, wound irrigation, anti-microbial sutures, use of wound retractors and negative pressure wound therapy). Post-operative laparotomy wound data recollected after changes. Results Clear literature evidence in support of surgical care bundles. Pre-closure glove change, new closure equipment set, wound irrigation, anti-microbial sutures, use of wound retractors and negative pressure wound therapy all found to contribute to a statistically significant reduction in SSIs. Implementation of these changes led to a reduction of SSIs within the department. Conclusions SSIs are the most common surgical complication worldwide. They lead to increase morbidity/mortality, prolonged hospital stays and increase economic burden. Recent literature has highlighted simple measures to reduce SSIs. Implementation of these measures has led to a department wide reduction in SSIs.