Methods for Identifying Surgical Wound Infection After Hospital Discharge
Author Information
Author(s): Petherick Emily S, Dalton Jane E, Moore Peter J, Cullum Nicky
Primary Institution: Department of Health Sciences, University of York
Hypothesis
What is the evidence for the validity, reliability and practicality of different methods of case ascertainment and surveillance for SSIs post discharge?
Conclusion
There is a need to develop a valid and reliable method for post-discharge surveillance of surgical site infections.
Supporting Evidence
- Seven reports of six comparative studies were located.
- Several studies evaluated automated screening of electronic records as a useful strategy.
- The audit identified a wide range of post-discharge surveillance programmes in the UK.
Takeaway
This study looked at how to find out if patients get infections after they leave the hospital. It found that we need better ways to check for these infections.
Methodology
A systematic review and national audit of post-discharge surveillance methods for surgical site infections.
Potential Biases
Methodological limitations in the studies included and variability in definitions and data collection methods.
Limitations
Existing research has not identified a valid and reliable method for post-discharge SSI surveillance.
Participant Demographics
Involves patients undergoing various surgical procedures in the UK.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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