Infection Prevention Tip: Performing Skin Prep Technique Correctly

A recent surge in requests from clients to review possible and documented surgical site infections (SSIs) associated with orthopedic cases that also saw several cultures growing skin-contaminant organisms prompted ICCS to provide this tip.

The ICCS team of infection prevention consultants noted several inconsistencies when observing surgical cases, including failure to prep correctly from incision to periphery. It is important that all staff members, including nurses, surgical techs and surgeons, understand and follow specific instructions as well as general guidance on appropriate prep technique. Companies that manufacture skip prep products provide specific instructions for proper technique. These are available in various forms — including online videos — for use to educate and orient staff to the proper technique.

ICCS suggests contacting manufacturers and requesting an onsite demonstration. This is a great opportunity for live staff education and a refresher for all.

Have a question concerning SSIs and surgical prep? Contact ICCS!

Catch up on previously published infection prevention tips.

Infection Prevention Tip: Manufacturer’s Expiration Date for Peel Pouch Packs

Are you aware that manufacturers of peel pouch/peel pack items may indicate a product expiration date on the box of individual pouches or the peel pouch roll? ICCS consultants have recently observed surveyors citing central processing departments if they fail to adhere to the instructions related to the expiration date.

This can be confusing for facilities that follow the AORN “event-related” standard for “expiration of reprocessed items.” Event related indicates that a sterilized item does not have to be reprocessed when unused at certain intervals unless the packaging has been compromised. However, in the case of peel pouches, if a sterilized item is not used within the time frame of expiration of the pouch itself, the item should be reprocessed.

For a more in-depth explanation of this handy tip, questions regarding peel pouches or assistance with other infection prevention and control challenges, contact ICCS.

Catch up on previously published infection prevention tips.

Phenelle Segal Discusses Infection Control Innovations With Outpatient Surgery Magazine

ICCS Founder and infection control consultant Phenelle Segal, RN, CIC, FAPIC, is a featured source in a new Outpatient Surgery Magazine article.

In the article, which identifies some of the latest infection control products and practices, Segal discusses nasal decolonization and rapid sterilization.

Access the article on infection control innovations.