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Review
. 2024 Dec 1;37(6):712-718.
doi: 10.1097/ACO.0000000000001432. Epub 2024 Oct 3.

Preventing perioperative infections: a call to action for anesthesiologists

Madina Gerasimov  1 , Della M Lin  2 , Uma Munnur  3 , Melanie Donnelly  4
Affiliations
Review

Preventing perioperative infections: a call to action for anesthesiologists

Madina Gerasimov et al. Curr Opin Anaesthesiol. .

Abstract

Purpose of review: Surgical site infections (SSI) are one of the most costly complications and hospital organizations are promoting multidisciplinary approaches to address this harm. Anesthesiologists are increasingly recognized as key players influencing surgical outcomes and patient safety, and play a key role in preventing SSIs.

Recent findings: Recent guidelines and strategies to prevent SSI are focused on the areas which anesthesiologists can impact including antimicrobial prophylaxis, proper hand hygiene, decontamination of environmental surfaces and operating room equipment coming in direct contact with patients.

Summary: Timely interventions, including appropriate antibiotics' administration, practicing sterile and aseptic techniques when performing intraoperative procedures and handling medications are impactful steps in the process of improving rates of SSIs. Multidisciplinary participation in local and regional collaborative initiatives to improve adherence to best practices as well as integrated education of all the stakeholders are some of the principles of patient-centered care described in our review.

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References

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    1. Zimlichman E, Henderson D, Tamir O, et al. Healthcare-associated infections. a meta-analysis of costs and financial impact on the US healthcare system. JAMA Intern Med 2013; 173:2039–2046.
    1. Mauermann WJ, Nemergut EC. The Anesthesiologist's role in the prevention of surgical site infections. Anesthesiology 2006; 105:413–442.
    1. Sharma A, Fernandez PG, Rowlands JP, et al. Perioperative infection transmission: the role of the Anesthesia provider in infection control and healthcare-associated infections. Curr Anesthesiol Rep 2020; 10:233–241.

MeSH terms