Attack rate of superficial incision surgical site infections at King Khalid Hospital , Hail City, Saudi Arabia

Background: Surgical site infections (SSIs) are common healthcare-associated infections that lead to higher morbidity, longer hospital stays, and increased costs. Despite global efforts to reduce their incidence, limited data exist on SSIs in secondary healthcare settings, emphasizing the need for further research to guide prevention and control. Aim: To determine the attack rate, associated factors, and evaluate adherence to the SSIs prevention bundle at King Khalid Hospital (KKH), Hail City, Saudi Arabia. Methods: This study included 162 adult patients undergoing various surgeries at KKH. Patients were followed for 30 days postoperatively, including outpatient visits, to detect superficial incisional SSIs. Statistical analysis was performed to identify associations between risk factors and SSI occurrence. Results: The overall attack rate of superficial incisional SSIs was 2.5% (4/162). Two cases were detected post-discharge, and one required readmission. Among identified SSIs, three presented with tenderness, two with fever, and two showed wound dehiscence. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were isolated from one case. Compliance with prevention bundles was high: 99.4% received timely prophylactic antibiotics and 98.1% discontinued within recommended timeframes. Conclusions: This study shows a low superficial SSI rate in a secondary hospital with high adherence to prevention bundles. Findings highlight the importance of standardized antibiotic protocols and post-discharge surveillance. Implementing care bundles is critical in reducing SSIs.