Clinical Issues-June 2020.

Area of Science:

• Surgical safety and infection control.
• Microbiology and virology.
• Healthcare policy and procedure.

Background:

• Herpes labialis, commonly known as cold sores, is caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1).
• Perioperative personnel can transmit HSV-1 to patients, particularly during surgical procedures.
• The use of surgical masks is a standard infection control measure, but its specific efficacy against HSV-1 transmission from staff to patients requires documentation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the risk of infection transmission from perioperative personnel with cold sores to patients.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of surgical masks in preventing the spread of HSV-1 in the operating room.
• To establish clear guidelines for managing staff with active herpes labialis during surgical procedures.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on HSV-1 transmission and surgical mask efficacy.
• Analysis of case studies involving perioperative staff with cold sores.
• Development of a framework for documenting and managing potential infection risks.

Main Results:

• Active cold sores on perioperative staff present a potential source of HSV-1 transmission.
• Surgical masks act as a physical barrier, reducing the expulsion of infectious droplets.
• Standard documentation practices for medical devices like bone wax and tissue preparation solutions are crucial for patient safety.

Conclusions:

• Implementing strict protocols for perioperative personnel with active cold sores is essential.
• Consistent use of surgical masks by all staff is recommended to minimize HSV-1 transmission.
• Enhanced documentation of all materials and procedures, including bone wax and tissue preparation solutions, improves surgical safety and accountability.