To describe orthopaedic surgical site infection (SSI) surveillance models at two English pilot sites, and to review their effectiveness and integration into clinical governance.
The different organisational models for orthopaedic SSI at two Trusts were examined and assessed.
Both sites recognised that regular feedback to clinical staff and clinical ownership are important determinants of success, and this was addressed by both models. Each site appointed a surveillance coordinator within the infection control service to oversee the programme, but tasked data collection to different staff groups directly involved with the care of orthopaedic patients. Feedback programmes to Clinical Governance Committees, clinical staff and managers were developed, reinforcing surveillance of SSI as a core component of surgical risk management and quality assurance, and an integral part of clinical governance. The pilots demonstrated the importance of a dedicated surveillance coordinator.
Infection following joint replacement surgery is associated with high morbidity and financial costs. In 2004 surveillance of orthopaedic SSI became mandatory in England. A description and assessment of these pilot sites will be of practical value to Trusts that must now implement SSI surveillance.
SSI surveillance is a corner‐stone of risk management and quality clinical care, yet little has been published on organisational frameworks needed for implementation, particularly in the context of clinical governance. This paper addresses these issues in describing and assessing the models at two English pilot sites.
