If you're preparing for surgery, your to-do list might include a pre-operative shave. But according to new global guidelines, you should put down the razor.
In a major effort to save lives, cut costs, and slow the spread of antibiotic-resistant superbugs, the World Health Organization (WHO) has released a list of 29 concrete recommendations for preventing surgical site infections. The guidelines, distilled by 20 of the world's leading experts and published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases, are based on extensive reviews of the latest evidence.
Among the key recommendations for patients:
- Do have a bath or shower before heading to the hospital.
- Do not ask for or have the surgical site shaved.
For medical teams, a crucial guideline addresses the use of medication: antibiotics should only be used to prevent infections before and during an operation, not afterwards. This is a critical step in arresting the development of drug-resistant bacteria.
The Digital Health Connection
These guidelines highlight the importance of clear and consistent communication between patients and providers, an area where digital health platforms are making a significant impact.
At Medicup, we see telehealth as a vital tool for pre-operative education. A provider can hold a video consultation to walk a patient through these new protocols, ensuring they understand exactly how to prepare for their procedure and what to expect. This direct, personal guidance can improve patient compliance and reduce anxiety.
Post-surgery, telehealth and integrated electronic medical records (EMRs) help providers monitor recovery closely without relying on prophylactic antibiotics. Secure messaging and virtual follow-ups allow for the quick assessment of a healing wound, enabling swift intervention if signs of infection appear, while upholding the WHO's standards for antibiotic stewardship.
By integrating evidence-based guidelines like these into digital workflows, we can empower both patients and providers, leading to safer surgeries and better long-term health outcomes for everyone.
Source: World Health Organization