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Preparation of skin for surgery
G P Graham1, C M Dent, J A Fairclough
1Department of Traumatic and Orthopaedic Surgery, Cardiff Royal Infirmary, UK.
Journal of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh
|August 1, 1991
Summary
Despite scientific evidence, traditional skin preparation practices persist in UK hospitals. This survey highlights the need for updated surgical site infection prevention protocols.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Site Infection Prevention
- Healthcare Practices Research
Background:
- Surgical site infections (SSIs) remain a significant concern in healthcare.
- Evidence-based guidelines for skin preparation exist but may not be widely adopted.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess current skin preparation practices in UK hospitals.
- To compare contemporary practices with historical data from 1983.
- To identify barriers to adopting evidence-based skin preparation methods.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted among 113 hospitals in the United Kingdom.
- Data collected focused on current protocols for surgical skin preparation.
- Findings were compared with a similar survey from 1983.
Main Results:
- Traditional skin preparation methods continue to be prevalent.
- Adoption of scientifically supported changes in practice is limited.
- A significant gap exists between recommended and actual clinical practice.
Conclusions:
- Current skin preparation practices in UK hospitals largely rely on tradition rather than current evidence.
- There is a need to promote the implementation of evidence-based guidelines to reduce surgical site infections.
- Recommendations for practice changes are proposed based on survey findings and scientific evidence.