Comparing Early and Delayed Bathing After Orthopaedic Fracture Surgery to Study Patient Satisfaction and Infection Rates

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effects of early versus delayed bathing on orthopedic surgical wounds in patients undergoing surgery for fractures. This randomized controlled trial aims to compare patient satisfaction and infection rates between two bathing schedules for surgical wounds. The study is conducted at a single center and includes adults with isolated acute fractures requiring surgery, excluding complicated wounds and certain medical conditions. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups. Group A will start early normal bathing by removing dressings and showering with body soap on postoperative day 3, with wounds uncovered. Group B will follow traditional delayed bathing, beginning showering after wound examination and suture removal, approximately 10 to 20 days after surgery, with wounds covered. Patients who decline randomization may participate observationally with the same follow-up. Participants will be followed up at 2, 6, and 12 weeks after surgery. Researchers will collect data on patient satisfaction using a Likert Scale and monitor for infections, distinguishing between superficial and deep infections, as well as peri-incisional inflammation like adhesive rash. The total study duration for each participant includes these follow-up visits, assessing both safety and satisfaction outcomes.

Early Versus Delayed Bathing of Orthopaedic Surgical Wounds