Sternal Wound Infections: Perioperative Management and Nursing Consideration Mrs. Stalin Girija Kumari1,*, Mrs. Joy R. Adlin Pon2,** 1Lecturer, Nursing Department, College of Health Sciences, University of Bahrain, P.O box-32038, Kingdom of Bahrain 2Medical Surgical Nursing, Flat 11 Entrance 1112, Road 0615 Central Manama-0306, Capital Governorate, Kingdom of Bahrain *Corresponding Author E-mail: girijastalin63@gmail.com
**adlinponjoy@gmail.com
Online published on 31 October, 2018. Abstract Sternal wound Infections (SWIs), a potentially life-threatening complication after cardiac surgery associated with increased mortality and morbidity. They occur in 1% to 3%of patients undergoing open heart surgery and carry a 20%to 40%mortality rate. The development of Sternal Wound Infection often has a late onset and is usually detected only after discharge. Early detection and aggressive treatment with culture-directed antibiotics, debridement, drainage and immediate wound closure using muscle flaps are necessary to reduce the recurrence of sternal infections. Nurses caring for cardiac surgery patients must be expert in promoting wound healing and early recognition of Sternal Wound Infections and sternal dehiscence. Timely collaborative care will improve patient outcomes and reduce the cost of treatment. Top Keywords Sternal Wound Infections, Sternal Dehiscence, Deep Sternal Wound Infections, Cardiac Surgery, Muscle Flap, Debridement, Vaccum-Assisted Closure (VAC). Top |