10
Recommendations
Table 5. Fundamental Elements of Accountability and
Engagement for SSI Prevention
Organizational Role Responsibilities Accountability
Senior management
(executives,
senior directors)
(Note: regulatory
requirement for US
hospitals)
Ensure sufficient funds,
expertise, and commitment to
an infection prevention and
control (IPC) program that
effectively prevents healthcare-
associated infections (HAIs)
and the transmission of
epidemiologically important
pathogens.
Accountable for proper
resource allocation and
evaluation, including
training, competency, and
ancillary support (e.g., data
analysis).
Surgical services
leadership (surgeon,
anesthesia,
perioperative nursing
leaders)
Ensure all perioperative staff
are aware of their roles and
expectations as they relate to SSI
prevention. Advocate for the
support of senior leadership.
Direct evaluation of groups
and practitioners, enforcing
standards and correcting
when necessary. Review of
longitudinal outcome data
and communication with
all perioperative staff.
Surgical services
staff (surgeons,
anesthesiologists/
certified registered
nurse anesthetists
(CRNAs),
perioperative nurses
and technicians)
Ensure execution of prevention
measures consistently for all
procedures. Escalate questions
and concerns to senior surgical
leadership.
SSI prevention process
measurement, individual
reinforcement, support,
and correction as indicated.
Pharmacists Ensure proper medications for
SSI prevention are available
when needed. Promote
evidence-based, cost-effective
choice of antimicrobial
prophylaxis.
Track utilization patterns
and adverse drug events
to ensure proper use of
drugs for SSI prevention.
Communicate changes and
their rationale (e.g., drug
shortage, new evidence)
Infection
preventionists
Ensure surveillance for SSI
is thorough and aligns with
national standards. Support
prevention efforts as subject
matter experts, coaches, and
observers of process and
outcome. Educate staff and
audit compliance on practical
application of infection control
related policies and processes.
Validation of surveillance
methodolog y with
transparency to all
partners. Assess SSI
prevention system as a
whole to identify gaps and
opportunities.
