Implementing a surgical site infection care bundle: Implications for perioperative practice

Abstract

Surgical care bundles are made up of a group of evidence-based practice interventions which when performed together can have a positive outcome on patient care. The ACORN Standards for Perioperative Nursing in Australia outline practices that should be adhered to in Australia; however, practices can be further refined clinically to ensure best practice. Surgical site infection is one of the most preventable causes of hospital-acquired infections in Australia. Research suggests that care bundles implemented by the perioperative team can reduce the incidence of such infections while also offering additional benefits. Surgical site infection intervention bundles can support nurses in their evidence-based practice, contribute to continuing professional development and encourage communication and teamwork. Bundles are simple to implement, can be individualised to each facility and can support culture change using a scale-up approach with long term benefits for the health care organisation.