CIC Surgical Site Infection Prevention

Question 1

Which CDC SSI category includes infections involving only skin and subcutaneous tissue at the incision site?

Accepted Answer

Superficial incisional SSI

Answer

Superficial incisional SSIs involve only the skin and subcutaneous tissue at the incision site within 30 days of surgery.

Question 2

What is the recommended timing for surgical antimicrobial prophylaxis administration to reduce SSI risk?

Accepted Answer

Within 60 minutes before incision

Answer

Prophylactic antibiotics should be administered within 60 minutes before the surgical incision to achieve adequate tissue levels at the time of the procedure.

Question 3

Which method is preferred for preoperative hair removal to reduce SSI risk?

Accepted Answer

Clipping with electric clippers

Answer

Electric clippers are preferred over razors because razors cause microabrasions that disrupt skin integrity and increase SSI risk.

Question 4

Which preoperative skin antiseptic agent is recommended for clean-contaminated surgical procedures?

Accepted Answer

Chlorhexidine-alcohol

Answer

Chlorhexidine-alcohol is the preferred preoperative skin antiseptic due to its superior persistent antimicrobial activity compared to other agents.

Question 5

Which patient comorbidity most significantly increases SSI risk in elective surgery?

Accepted Answer

Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus

Answer

Uncontrolled hyperglycemia impairs neutrophil function and wound healing, substantially increasing the risk of SSI.

CIC - Certification in Infection Prevention and Control Practice Test

CIC - Certification in Infection Prevention and Control Practice Test

CIC Surgical Site Infection Prevention