Skin - The source of the problem
Studies have shown that the patient’s own skin is responsible for most of the pathogens that cause Surgical Site Infections (SSIs)
Disinfection is a major priority in all hospitals, which is why all surgical sites and operating theatres are sterile environments. However, one element of surgery cannot be sterilised by hospital staff: the patient.
Most surgical site infections (SSIs) are caused during surgery by an incision being contaminated with microorganisms from the patient’s body.
Studies have shown that the patient’s own skin is responsible for most of the pathogens that cause SSIs
In order to ensure a ‘clean surgery’, the patient must follow the process of whole body washing and disinfect their skin, prior to and following a surgical procedure.
Whole body washing prior to surgery with a chlorhexidine gluconate solution significantly reduces the number of bacteria on the skin, compared to soap and water.
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