Implementing Evidence-Based Practice to Reduce Infections Following Arthroplasty.

Area of Science:

• Infection Control
• Evidence-Based Practice
• Surgical Outcomes

Background:

• Surgical site infections (SSIs) significantly increase patient morbidity and healthcare costs.
• Nasal carriage of Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a known risk factor for SSIs.
• Translating evidence-based practices to clinical settings remains a challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the implementation of an evidence-based practice to reduce MRSA SSIs.
• To utilize the Johns Hopkins nursing evidence-based practice model for successful translation.
• To target patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and total hip arthroplasty (THA).

Main Methods:

• A community hospital adopted an evidence-based practice protocol.
• The Johns Hopkins nursing evidence-based practice model guided the implementation process.
• Screening and decolonization protocols were applied to TKA and THA patients.

Main Results:

• The implementation aimed to decrease the incidence of MRSA SSIs.
• Successful integration of evidence into routine clinical practice was achieved.
• Improved patient safety and quality of care were the intended outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Implementing evidence-based practices, such as MRSA nasal screening and treatment, is crucial for preventing SSIs.
• The Johns Hopkins model provides a framework for effective evidence translation in hospitals.
• Targeted interventions for high-risk surgical procedures can lead to better patient outcomes and reduced healthcare burden.