The use of protocolised care bundle to prevent paediatric cardiac surgical site infection in resource-limited setting

Abstract

Objective: Surgical site infection is an important concern due to its association with morbidity and mortality after paediatric cardiac surgery. The aim of this study was to present our approach and experience in the utilisation of a modified care bundle in a recently established paediatric cardiac surgical unit in the low-income region of Turkey. Methods: Between 2019 and 2021, we identified children who underwent cardiac surgical procedures and retrospectively collected relevant demographic data, disease characteristics, operational data, Risk Adjustment For Congenital Heart Surgery (RACHS-1) scores, and post-operative factors such as morbidities, mortality, critical care, and in-hospital stay lengths. Surgical site infections and late infections were scanned. Results: Ninety-six patients (49 males, 47 females) underwent a total of 127 surgical procedures during the study period. Overall adherence to the protocol was 94%, 100%, and 96% in the pre-operative, intra-operative, and post-operative periods, respectively. There was no reported surgical site infection, and no late infection was encountered throughout the follow-up period. Conclusions: We conclude that a low rate of surgical site infection, or even a rate of nil, is attainable through the utilisation of locally standardised guidelines for its prevention.