246 - Traffic Control: A New route to Infection Prevention in the Operating Room

Description: Background/

Introduction: Over the past year, our facility has seen a significant increase in surgical site infections (SSI's), prompting a thorough review of our daily perioperative practices. While multiple factors can contribute to the development of SSI's, we are focusing our attention on one critical but often overlooked element-traffic in and out of the operating room (OR). Frequent movement disrupts airflow, compromises sterile fields, and increases the risk of contamination.

Purpose/Framework: By examining our current practices and identifying opportunities to limit unnecessary OR traffic, we aim to improve patient safety, reduce infection rates, and reinforce a culture of accountability and excellence in surgical care following the IOWA Model of Evidence Based Practice.

Methods: A multidisciplinary team was assembled to investigate the relationship between OR traffic and SSI's rates. We developed a data collection tool to monitor and record the number of times the OR door opened and closed, as well as identifying the individuals responsible for each instance of door manipulation during surgical procedures. Data on OR traffic was collected concurrently with SSI rates throughout the current year to identify potential correlations.

Results: The results of the audit were compelling and highlighted a clear need for change. Data revealed a high frequency of door openings during surgical procedures-many of which were unnecessary and preventable. In several cases, the door opened dozens of times during a single case, significantly increasing the risk of airborne contamination. Following the implementation of interventions particularly staff education, preference card updates and use of telephone communication, preliminary data suggests a downward trend in door openings per procedure.

Conclusion: Our efforts to reduce operating room traffic as a means of lowering SSI rates are ongoing. Our initial interventions have been successfully implemented and have already begun to promote more mindful movement within the OR. The next phase of our initiative involves installing visual signage on OR doors and engaging surgeons to gain their support and commitment to the traffic reduction protocols. We will continue to audit and monitor SSI rates as all interventions are rolled out, with the goal of fostering a safer surgical environment and improving patient outcomes.