Surgical site infection (SSI), which can range from superficial infection to life-threatening problems, puts extra strain on healthcare resources and can have a significant impact on patient quality of life. The majority of SSIs are preventable, with different members of the multidisciplinary team (MDT) playing their part at every stage of the patient journey from preoperative assessment to post-discharge follow up. Effective communication and cooperation between members of the MDT is key. This article provides an overview of the input at different stages along the patient journey.

Mel Burden - Advanced Nurse Specialist, Infection Prevention and Control, Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust

Melanie Thornton - Surveillance Nurse Specialist, Infection Prevention and Control, Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust