Nursing in the context of surgical wound infection: integrative review

Abstract

Objective: This article aims to describe the theoretical profile of publications on nursing in the context of surgical wound infection. Method: this is an integrative literature review between 2016 and 2021, in the SciELO, Lilacs and Medline databases – from the Health Sciences Descriptors “surgical wound infection” and “surgical site infection” and “nursing”. Results: three thematic axes were chosen for the discussion, namely: surgical site infection; nursing and guidelines for the prevention of surgical site infection; and nursing in the context of surgical wound infection. Conclusion: the prevention of infection requires a multifactorial approach, and the nurse is considered the key professional in managing the perioperative care necessary to minimize the risk of infection. Health professionals should be aware of updated guidelines for the prevention and management of surgical wound infections.