Millions of people have surgery each year. Every surgery has risks, but we know there are some that can be prevented. One way you can help to lower your risk for problems is to talk with a member of your surgical care team before the surgery about the care you should receive.  Your team includes your surgeon, anesthesiologist and your nurses.

What is a surgical site infection?

• A surgical site infection is an infection that can happen after surgery in the part of the body where the surgery was.
• Most patients do not get an infection.
• Common symptoms of an infection are redness, increased pain, drainage from the wound and fever.

What can I do to prevent a surgical site infection?

• Tell your doctor about any medical problems you may have.
• If you can, quit smoking to lower the risk of infection.
• Do not shave near where you will have surgery because shaving can irritate your skin. If your procedure requires hair removal it will be done with a clipper immediately prior to surgery.
• Based on established  criteria your surgeon may prescribe antibiotics prior to surgery

After your surgery:

• Heathcare workers will wash their hands when caring for you. If you do not see them wash their hands, please ask them to do so.
• Family and friends who visit you should not touch the surgical wound or dressing.
• Visitors should wash their hands or use the alcohol based hand rub in your room when they come in your room and when they leave.

What do I need to do when I go home from the hospital?

• Before you go home, your doctor or nurse should explain everything you need to know about how to take care of your wound.
• Make sure you understand how to care for your wound before you leave the hospital.
• Always wash your hands before and after caring for your wound.
• Before you go home, make sure you know who to contact if you have questions or problems after you get home.
• If you have any symptoms of an infection, call your doctor immediately.
• If you have additional questions, please ask your doctor or nurse.