Infection control and prevention surveillance was underway in the cardiac ICU because of an alarming prevalence of sternal wound infections.The infection preventionist and perioperative clinical nurse specialist reviewed the criteria to define the SSI and develop strategies for further investigation and prevention.The infectious signs and symptoms arose on postoperative day 2 with edema,redness,and purulent exudates that appeared to be isolated to the subcutaneous plane above the sternum.What two important criteria must be met to conclusively define this SSI?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

These three criteria were met: evidence of signs of infection,purulent drainage,and less than 3 postoperative days.Superficial incisional SSI involves only the skin and subcutaneous tissue of the incision and at least one of the following: purulent drainage from the superficial incision; organisms isolated from a culture from the superficial incision; signs or symptoms of infection and deliberate opening by the surgeon; or diagnosis by the surgeon or attending physician.Deep incisional infection involves deep soft tissues (e.g.,fascial and muscle layers)of the incision and at least one of the following: purulent drainage from the deep tissue; incision spontaneously dehisces or is deliberately opened by a surgeon; abscess or other evidence of infection involving the deep incision; or diagnosis of a deep incisional SSI by a surgeon or attending physician.

Infection Control and Prevention Surveillance Was Underway in the Cardiac