How can perioperative nurses aid in infection control throughout the perioperative process?

Perioperative nurses play a crucial role in infection control throughout the entire perioperative process. Adhering to hand hygiene and sterile techniques is fundamental to preventing surgical site infections and other healthcare-associated infections. This practice includes thoroughly washing hands before and after patient contact, using hand sanitizers, and employing appropriate sterile techniques during procedures.

By following these protocols, perioperative nurses effectively reduce the risk of introducing pathogens into sterile environments and minimize the potential for cross-contamination between patients, surgical teams, and the operating room environment.

Other strategies, such as adhering to preoperative protocols that assess and mitigate infection risks, also complement these foundational practices. Reliance on antibiotics alone is not sufficient, as these medications do not replace the importance of preventive measures. Likewise, simply using gloves without additional precautions can provide a false sense of security, while minimizing patient interactions undermines the comprehensive care needed during surgery without addressing infection control. Therefore, the emphasis on proper hand hygiene and sterile techniques embodies best practices in enhancing patient safety and outcomes in the perioperative setting.