Effectiveness of Screening and Decolonization of Staphylococcus aureus to Prevent Surgical Site Infections in Outpatient Surgery

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effectiveness and safety of different approaches to screen for and remove Staphylococcus aureus (SA) bacteria before surgery. This study focuses on preventing SA colonization and surgical site infections in outpatients undergoing various surgeries, including orthopedic, urology, neuro, otolaryngology, plastic, general surgery, and OB/GYN procedures. The trial aims to compare four different SA decolonization methods to see which best eradicates SA carriage and reduces infection risks. Participants are assigned to one of four groups: Arm 1 involves screening for SA and giving a three-drug decolonization bundle (nasal mupirocin ointment, chlorhexidine gluconate body wash, and mouth rinse) for 5 days to those with SA, while non-carriers in this arm get two pre-op showers with chlorhexidine soap. Arm 2 gives all participants the three-drug bundle without screening. Arm 3 provides pre-op nasal povidone iodine on surgery day plus two pre-op chlorhexidine showers without screening. Arm 4 uses nasal alcohol gel on surgery day plus two pre-op chlorhexidine showers without screening. Participants will complete the decolonization protocol before surgery. Researchers will collect baseline cultures and assess eradication of SA from five body sites as the main outcome. Secondary outcomes include rates of SA surgical site infections and healthcare-associated infections. Monitoring includes verifying completion of the decolonization process and tracking infections. The study participation lasts from enrollment until surgery and includes follow-up to assess infection outcomes.

Effectiveness of Screening and Decolonization of S. Aureus to Prevent S. Aureus Surgical Site Infections in Surgery Outpatients