Reducing Caesarean Section Surgical Site Infection (SSI) by 50%: A Collaborative Approach
Gillian A. Corbett, E. O’Shea, Syeda F. Nazir, Rosena Hanniffy, Geraldine Chawke, Alison Rothwell, Fiona Gilsenan, Anne Macintyre, Anne Marie Meenan, Niamh O’Sullivan, Niamh Maher, Terry Tan, Sharon R. Sheehan
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Caesarean section surgical site infection (SSI) is a surgical wound site infection occurring within 30 days of surgery with a reported incidence of 3-15%. This quality improvement (QI) project aimed to reduce caesarean section SSI by 50% in a tertiary maternity center. METHODS: Using multidisciplinary team approach, the project was designed with evidence-based interventions. The Royal College of Physicians of Ireland/Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland "Preventing Surgical Site Infections Key Recommendations for Practice" guideline was used as standard perioperative care. A care bundle was designed targeting preoperative personal patient preparation, preoperative prophylactic antibiotics, and strict skin preparation technique, all measured using a patient survey. The rate of SSI was followed for 14 months. The Model for Improvement methodology was used to implement change. RESULTS: Surgical site infection rate decreased from 6.7% (n = 684 caesarean sections, n = 46 SSI) to 3.45% (n = 3,206 caesarean sections, n = 110 SSI), p = .0006. Reduction occurred in both elective (4.4%-2.7%) and emergency (9.1%-4.1%) caesarean section groups. There was excellent adherence to all three elements of the care bundle. The 50% reduction in caesarean section SSI was sustained over the 14-month period, significantly reducing maternal morbidity. CONCLUSIONS: The success of this QI project is attributable to frontline ownership and empowerment of patients and staff.