How to prevent infection after surgery

  About two out of every 100 patients who undergo surgery develop an infection, as estimated by the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America. While it’s a relatively small percentage, surgical site infections are a serious stall in the healing process – and may even require another operation to fully treat. You can play a role in keeping your odds of developing an infection after surgery low. Follow these surgical site infection prevention tips to promote proper wound healing: Prepare with caution Many surgeries require bathing and hair removal before the procedure. However, shaving with a razor can cause nicks or cuts, irritating the skin and making it more vulnerable to germs, bacteria and infection, according to the SHEA. As such, many surgeons recommend removing hair with clippers. According to VeryWell Health, most also suggest showering with an antiseptic soap prior to the operation. Wash your hands frequently to prevent spreading germs and bacteria to the surgical wound. Wash your hands Hand washing in general is the easiest defense against any kind of infection. It’s especially important to have freshly cleaned hands before changing surgical site dressings, even if you choose to wear gloves. Keep your body temperature in check Fairview highlighted controlled body temperature as one of the top ways to prevent infection after surgery. If your body is too cold, oxygen struggles to reach the wound and help fight infection. That’s why y...
Source: Advanced Tissue - Category: Dermatology Authors: Tags: Wound Care Wound healing Wound Infection surgical wounds Source Type: news