ABSTRACT
Introduction: Surgical site infections (SSIs) are the most common complication following surgery, with reported rates ranging from 5% to 30%. Aim and Objectives: This study aims to find out patient’s awareness, knowledge, and perception regarding the risks and consequences of SSIs. Materials and Methods: A structured interview schedule consisting of questions related demographic characteristics and knowledge items related to SSI developed by reviewing literature. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 250 patients admitted to the Department of General Surgery, IQ City Medical College, Durgapur, West Bengal, who were selected by simple random sampling. Results: Most (82%) of the patient were aware of weak immune system as a risk factor for SSI, 42% of the patient considered malnutrition as a risk, and 63% agreed that large number of visitors increase the risk for SSI. Majority (95%) of the patient answered that doctors are responsible for the prevention of SSI, 93% of patients believed that wearing cleans clothes were prevent SSI. Conclusion: Better strategies are needed to promote patient awareness of and engagement in reducing SSI risks and consequences and promoting prevention of SSI.
KEYWORDS:Hospitalized patients, Immune system, Surgical site infection.