Sterile Precision: Winning the Fight Against SSIs in the OR
Tackling the Persistent Challenge of Surgical Site Infections (SSIs)
Surgical Site Infections (SSIs) remain one of the most stubborn and costly healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), responsible for up to 20% of all HAIs and impacting 2–5% of inpatient surgical patients. These infections extend hospital stays, increase readmissions, and elevate patient risk—sometimes requiring additional surgeries or intensive care.
Despite advancements in surgical techniques and infection control, SSIs continue to burden healthcare systems worldwide. Contributing factors include:
- Antibiotic resistance
- Inadequate sterilization practices
- Environmental contamination
Tray Accuracy & Sterilization Integrity: The Hidden Risks
Instrument trays are a frontline defense against SSIs—but errors in assembly or sterilization can compromise patient safety. Common issues include:
- Missing or improperly cleaned instruments
- Damaged wraps or containers
- Manual handling errors and poor storage practices
These risks can lead to delayed procedures, extended anesthesia time, and direct exposure to pathogens—all of which increase institutional liability and patient harm.
Cross-Departmental Alignment: A Multidisciplinary Imperative
Preventing SSIs requires more than isolated efforts—it demands collaboration across surgical teams, sterile processing, infection control, and hospital leadership. Evidence-based strategies emphasize:
- System-wide process improvements
- Ongoing education and training
- Transparent communication
- A culture of safety and accountability
Hospitals that form multidisciplinary task forces and align on shared goals—like tray accuracy and sterilization integrity—see measurable improvements in patient outcomes and reduced risk.
Moab Healthcare’s Solution: The 3-P Methodology
We help healthcare organizations combat SSIs through our proven 3-P Methodology: People, Process & Protection.
People
Empowering cross-functional teams with training, accountability, and shared ownership of infection prevention—from OR nurses to sterile processing techs.
Process
Implementing quality improvement programs that monitor tray accuracy, sterilization workflows, and incident reporting. Our goals drive continuous improvement and compliance.
Protection
Investing in advanced sterilization technologies, rigid containers, and environmental controls to shield patients from airborne and contact-based contamination.
Let’s Eliminate SSIs—Together
Ready to transform your surgical outcomes and reduce infection risk?
Let’s talk about how our 3-P Methodology can support your team.
Contact us today at hello@moabhealthcare.com to schedule a consultation or learn more.
