WHO: Implementation manual to support the prevention of surgical site infections at the facility level (interim version)

Summary

Among the range of avoidable harms associated with health care, health care-associated infections (HAI) are a significant burden. Surgical site infections (SSIs) are the most frequent HAI in low and middle income countries and the second most frequent HAI in higher income settings. In the most challenged settings, they can affect up to one-third of surgical patients. SSI prevention is a high priority worldwide, but it is particularly complex as the risks include multiple factors determined by the patient’s condition, the system and the environment, as well as behaviours and actions associated with the organization and delivery of health care.