Name of the Procedure:

Preoperative Intravenous (IV) Antibiotic for Surgical Site Infection (SSI) Prophylaxis

Summary

This procedure involves administering antibiotics through an IV before surgery to prevent infections at the surgical site. However, in this particular case, the antibiotic was not started on time.

Purpose

Administering IV antibiotics before surgery aims to kill bacteria that could cause an infection in the area where the surgery will be performed. This preventive measure significantly reduces the risk of post-operative infections and promotes faster recovery.

Indications

• Patients scheduled for surgeries where the risk of infection is significant (e.g., abdominal surgeries, joint replacements).
• Patients with a history of infections or compromised immune systems.
• Surgeries involving prosthetic implants or intravascular devices.

Preparation

• Do not eat or drink anything after midnight before the surgery (fasting).
• Inform the healthcare provider about any allergies, especially to antibiotics.
• Complete any required pre-surgery diagnostic tests (e.g., blood tests, imaging).
• Follow instructions on stopping certain medications, if necessary.

Procedure Description

1. Preoperative Assessment: Review of medical history and pre-surgery tests.
2. IV Line Setup: An IV line is placed in the patient's vein.
3. Administration of Antibiotics: The antibiotic is administered through the IV line usually within an hour before the surgical incision.
4. Monitoring: The patient is monitored for any allergic reactions or side effects.

Duration

Approximately 15-30 minutes for assessing and administering the antibiotic.

Setting

Typically performed in the preoperative area of a hospital or surgical center.

Personnel

• Preoperative Nurse to place the IV and administer the antibiotic.
• Anesthesiologist and Surgeon to oversee the process and ensure the antibiotic is given at the correct time.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Minor side effects such as nausea, or a sense of warmth.
• Rare Risks: Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), IV site infection, antibiotic resistance.

Benefits

• Reduced risk of developing a surgical site infection.
• Faster recovery and fewer complications post-surgery.

Recovery

• No specific recovery required from the antibiotic administration.
• Continue with standard post-operative recovery protocols for the surgery itself.
• Follow all post-operative care instructions and attend follow-up appointments to monitor for any signs of infection.

Alternatives

• Oral Antibiotics: Though less commonly used due to slower absorption and effectiveness.
• No Antibiotic Prophylaxis: Only for surgeries where the risk of infection is negligible, but carries higher infection risk.

Patient Experience

• During Procedure: Mild discomfort when the IV line is placed. No significant pain from the antibiotic administration.
• After Procedure: Minimal to no discomfort. Monitoring for any allergic reactions. Pain management will be part of the overall surgical experience.