Introduction

Surgical Site Infections (SSIs) remain one of the most preventable healthcare-associated infections when evidence-based preoperative practices are followed consistently. The preoperative phase is especially critical because it is the window where patient risk factors can be identified and optimized, microbial burden can be reduced, and standardized preparation steps can be ensured before the first incision. This module focuses on practical, protocol-driven measures—such as risk assessment, patient bathing/skin preparation, hair removal practices, antimicrobial prophylaxis readiness, and preoperative checklists—to strengthen surgical safety and improve outcomes.

Scope

This program covers SSI prevention strategies implemented before surgery, including:

• Patient risk screening and optimization (e.g., diabetes control, anemia, smoking, nutrition)
• Preoperative patient education and preparation
• Pre-op bathing and skin antisepsis principles
• Appropriate hair removal practices and timing
• Preoperative antibiotic prophylaxis coordination (timing/readiness as per facility protocol)
• Environmental and workflow measures in pre-op areas (asepsis, hand hygiene, PPE)
• Documentation, checklists, and team communication for compliance

Objectives

By the end of this program, learners will be able to:

• Explain how SSIs occur and why the preoperative period is a key prevention opportunity
• Identify patient-related and procedure-related SSI risk factors prior to surgery
• Apply standardized best practices for pre-op skin preparation and hair removal
• Support safe, protocol-based planning for surgical antimicrobial prophylaxis
• Use preoperative checklists to ensure consistent adherence to SSI prevention bundles
• Strengthen teamwork, documentation, and audit readiness for infection prevention compliance

Who can enroll

Ideal for:

• Nurses (OT, ward, ICU, pre-op holding area, day-care surgery units)
• Surgeons, anesthetists, and perioperative clinical teams
• Infection Prevention & Control (IPC) professionals and quality teams
• Hospital administrators and patient safety officers
• Medical and nursing students, interns, and allied healthcare professionals involved in perioperative care

Study Content on TERRALEAP.COM

To support learning and practical implementation, this program includes videos and PDF-based study resources provided through TERRALEAP.COM.