posted on 2023-10-06, 13:30authored byHilary HumphreysHilary Humphreys, Aggie Bak, Elisabeth Ridgway, A Peter R Wilson, Margreet C Vos, Kate Woodhead, Claire Haill, Deborah Xuereb, Joanna M Walker, Jennifer Bostock, Gemma L Marsden, Thomas Pinkney, Rashmi Kumar, Peter Hoffman
There are existing evidence-based procedures and interventions undertaken pre- and peri-operatively to minimise surgical site infection (SSI), e.g. pre-operative surgical prophylaxis and minimising hypothermia. However, there are also many rituals and behaviours that take place in operating theatres (OT), that are derived from tradition, and custom rather than from evidence. To optimise patient care and efficiency in the use of resources, clinical guidelines are needed that are supported by whatever evidence is available. However, where there may be a degree of uncertainty regarding this evidence base, any advice that we or others provide should be characterised by integrity and a degree of humility.
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The original article is available at https://www.clinicalmicrobiologyandinfection.com/
Published Citation
Humphreys H. et al. Rituals and behaviours in the operating theatre and preventing infection. Using the evidence and consensus opinion to provide practical advice. Clin Microbiol Infect. 2024;30(2):152-154