What are key strategies to prevent postoperative surgical-site infections?

• A. Rely solely on antibiotic prophylaxis
• B. Adhere to aseptic technique, skin prep, prophylactic antibiotics per protocol, proper wound closure, and wound dressings
• C. Skip skin prep to save time
• D. Reuse dressings

Answer: (B)

Preventing postoperative surgical-site infections relies on a comprehensive approach that targets every stage of care. Maintaining aseptic technique keeps the surgical field free from pathogens and minimizes contamination. Skin preparation reduces the bacterial load on the incision site, lowering the chance that bacteria enter tissues during surgery. Prophylactic antibiotics, given per protocol and timed appropriately, help prevent infection by ensuring adequate tissue levels during the operation and are adjusted as needed for the procedure. Proper wound closure minimizes tissue trauma, reduces dead space, and prevents leakage that can harbor bacteria. Appropriate wound dressings protect the incision from external contaminants, manage drainage, and support a healing environment. Each element addresses a different risk, and together they provide the strongest protection. Relying only on antibiotics, skipping skin prep, or reusing dressings disrupts critical safeguards and raises infection risk.