Surgical Site Infection Reduction Program: Challenges and Opportunities

Surgical site infections (SSIs) make up about 23% of hospital-acquired infections and may cost up to 10 billion dollars annually in direct medical expenses. St. Luke's Health System of Boise, Idaho implemented a committee to reduce its incidence of SSIs, focusing on the orthopaedic and neurosurgical departments. After identifying risk factors associated with patient medical comorbidities, operating room practices, and type of procedure, Project Zero recommended changes. The implementation of a preoperative clinic and protocol management of environmental and procedural factors reduced the hospitals rate by 50%. Project Zero continues to research best practices for clean room management and preventative care, striving to reach the overall goal of zero infections.