Risk Factors and Key Principles for Prevention of Surgical Site Infections

Abstract

Surgical site infections are one of the most important causes of healthcare-asso-ciated infections (HCAIs). They are associated with morbidity and possibly in part as a factor in associated postoperative mortality if present. Thus, it is important to recognize different SSIs and that they can vary from trivial wounds to a life-threat-ening condition. There are multiple risk factors contributing to the development of SSIs and guidelines to combat and decrease the possibility of the occurrence of such events through proper implementation.