Implementing a Bundle to Improve Surgical Site Infection Rates for Patients Undergoing Nonvaginal-Approach...

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Quality Improvement
• Infection Prevention and Control
• Surgical Outcomes Research

Background:

• Surgical site infection (SSI) rates are critical metrics for healthcare organizations, influencing accreditation and patient trust.
• A high standard infection ratio (SIR) for hysterectomies prompted an investigation at a midwestern teaching hospital.
• National organizations and healthcare payers monitor SSI rates, making reduction a priority.

Purpose of the Study:

• To decrease the elevated standard infection ratio (SIR) for hysterectomies at a midwestern teaching hospital.
• To develop and implement a targeted SSI prevention strategy for hysterectomy procedures.
• To improve patient safety and healthcare quality through evidence-based infection control.

Main Methods:

• An interdisciplinary team, including surgeons and infection preventionists, was formed.
• The team reviewed national guidelines and literature on SSI prevention, focusing on vaginal preparation.
• A hysterectomy-specific SSI prevention bundle was developed and implemented.

Main Results:

• The implementation of the SSI prevention bundle led to a 68% decrease in SSIs.
• The standard infection ratio (SIR) for hysterectomies significantly improved post-intervention.
• Sustained use of the bundle and ongoing monitoring were established.

Conclusions:

• A targeted, multidisciplinary approach and a specific prevention bundle can effectively reduce SSIs after hysterectomies.
• Continuous monitoring and adherence to evidence-based practices are crucial for maintaining low SSI rates.
• This strategy offers a replicable model for other institutions aiming to improve surgical site infection outcomes.