Postoperative infections in clean surgical operations, defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as uninfected operative wounds with no inflammation and no entry into sterile tracts (e.g., gastrointestinal or respiratory systems), are influenced by various perioperative factors. The Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology (CBIC) emphasizes identifying and mitigating risk factors in the "Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases" domain, aligning with CDC guidelines for surgical site infection (SSI) prevention. The question focuses on identifying a procedure not documented as a contributor to SSIs, requiring an evaluation of evidence-based risk factors.
Option C, "The use of iodophors for preoperative scrubs," has not been documented to contribute to the development of postoperative infections in clean surgical operations. Iodophors, such as povidone-iodine, are antiseptic agents used for preoperative skin preparation and surgical hand scrubs. The CDC's "Guideline for Prevention of Surgical Site Infections" (1999) and its 2017 update endorse iodophors as an effective method for reducing microbial load on the skin, with no evidence suggesting they increase SSI risk when used appropriately. Studies, including those cited by the CDC, show that iodophors are comparable to chlorhexidine in efficacy for preoperative antisepsis, and their use is a standard, safe practice rather than a risk factor.
Option A, "Prolonged preoperative hospital stay," is a well-documented risk factor. Extended hospital stays prior to surgery increase exposure to healthcare-associated pathogens, raising the likelihood of colonization and subsequent SSI, as noted in CDC and surgical literature (e.g., Mangram et al., 1999). Option B,
"Prolonged length of the operations," is also a recognized contributor. Longer surgical durations are associated with increased exposure time, potential breaches in sterile technique, and higher infection rates, supported by CDC data showing a correlation between operative time and SSI risk. Option D, "Shaving the site on the day prior to surgery," has been documented as a risk factor. Preoperative shaving, especially with razors, can cause microabrasions that serve as entry points for bacteria, increasing SSI rates. The CDC recommends avoiding shaving or using clippers immediately before surgery to minimize this risk, with evidence from studies like those in the 1999 guideline showing higher infection rates with preoperative shaving.
The CBIC Practice Analysis (2022) and CDC guidelines focus on evidence-based practices, and the lack of documentation linking iodophor use to increased SSIs-coupled with its role as a preventive measure-makes Option C the correct answer. The other options are supported by extensive research as contributors to SSI development in clean surgeries.
References:
* CBIC Practice Analysis, 2022.
* CDC Guideline for Prevention of Surgical Site Infections, 1999, updated 2017.
* Mangram, A. J., et al. (1999). Guideline for Prevention of Surgical Site Infection. Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology.