When embarking on the path to recovery after surgery, it’s imperative to be aware of, and ready to prevent, potential speed bumps – one such being Surgical Site Infections (SSIs). These infections can occur at the part of the body where surgery was performed and can range from superficial wound infections to more serious issues affecting organs or implanted material. Let’s navigate through some practical steps to prevent SSIs and ensure a smoother journey towards healing.
Preoperative Hygiene
A clean surgical site lessens the risk of infection. Depending on your surgeon’s directions, showering or bathing with an antiseptic soap before surgery can make a big difference in reducing bacteria on your skin.
Keep Your Hands Clean, Always
The importance of stringent hand hygiene cannot be stressed enough. Ensure everyone, including healthcare professionals and visitors, sanitizes their hands before and after coming in contact with your surgical wound Dr Faris Abusharif.
Pre-Surgery Health Optimization
Optimal health status prior to surgery can mitigate the risk of SSIs. This encompasses control of blood sugars in diabetics, cessation of smoking, and adequate nutrition.
Antibiotics
Your surgeon might recommend prophylactic antibiotics before the surgery. These can significantly help reduce the risk of infections. Always ensure to take them as per the prescribed schedule.
Postoperative Wound Care
The post-surgery wound care protocol given by your healthcare provider is your road map to recovery, says Dr Faris Abusharif . Follow it diligently, including cleaning and dressing the wound, recognizing signs of infection like excessive redness, pain, or discharge, and reporting them promptly.
Stay Active As Advised
Mobilization, as guided by your healthcare provider, not only aids general recovery but can also prevent stasis of blood, decreasing the chances of blood clots and promoting better wound healing.
Surgical battles are fought and won not just in the operation theaters, but also during the period that follows. A vigilant approach towards the prevention of SSIs aids in a quicker recovery and reduces the duration of hospital stay, allowing you to reclaim your health and step back into the rhythm of life more swiftly. Remember, healing is a process, and every step taken towards prevention leads you further along your path to wellness Dr Faris Abusharif.
