Cost and Consequences of Surgical Site Infections: A Call to Arms
Elizabeth Sullivan1, Alok Gupta1, Charles H Cook1
1Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center , Boston, Massachusetts.
Abstract:
Despite decades of attention and advances in medical treatments, surgical site infections (SSI) remain a significant problem to our patients. Surprisingly, the reported incidence of SSI has not changed appreciably in the past five decades, although not surprisingly the timing to diagnosis (inpatient vs. outpatient) has changed. Although the patient consequences have not escaped our notice, until recently the costs associated with SSI have been difficult to ascertain. In this review, we discuss the relevant history of SSI monitoring, the incidence as well as the costs and consequences associated with this complication.
Insights
Surgical site infections (SSI) continue to pose a significant patient problem, with incidence rates unchanged over five decades. This review examines the history, costs, and consequences of these persistent infections.
Area of Science:
- Medical Science
- Infectious Diseases
- Healthcare Management
Background:
- Surgical site infections (SSI) remain a persistent challenge in patient care despite medical advances.
- The incidence of SSI has shown little change over the past 50 years.
- Diagnosis timing for SSI has shifted between inpatient and outpatient settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the historical monitoring of SSI.
- To analyze the incidence, costs, and consequences of SSI.
- To highlight the ongoing impact of SSI on patients and healthcare systems.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of SSI monitoring and incidence.
- Analysis of patient consequences and associated costs.
- Discussion of historical trends and current challenges.
Main Results:
- SSI incidence has remained largely static over five decades.
- The timing of SSI diagnosis has evolved.
- The significant costs and patient consequences of SSI are increasingly recognized.
Conclusions:
- Despite advances, SSI remains a critical issue requiring continued attention.
- Understanding the historical context, costs, and consequences is vital for future strategies.
- Effective SSI monitoring and management are essential for improving patient outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
01:26Healthcare Associated Infections I: Iatrogenic, Exogenic and Endogenic
HAIs significantly increase the cost of health care. Extended stays in healthcare institutions, increased disability, increased costs of medications, including specialized antibiotics, and prolonged recovery times add to the patient's expenses and the healthcare institution and funding bodies. Common...
01:22Healthcare Associated Infections II: Preventive Measures
The best practices for preventing healthcare-associated infections include hand hygiene, patient risk...
01:28Asepsis
01:26Standard Precaution
Hand hygiene is the most crucial means to prevent the transmission of disease. Employers are legally required to provide their workers with personal protective equipment (PPE) to minimize exposure or contact with...
01:14SBAR II: Application of SBAR
SBAR Report from a Nurse to a Health Care Provider
S: "Hello, Dr. Smith. This is Jane, RN, from the Med Surg unit. I am calling to tell you about Ms. White in Room 210, who is experiencing increased pain and redness at her incision site. Her recent...
01:23Peripheral Artery Disease V: Postoperative Nursing Management