Effect of the traffic light system on early detection of surgical site infections among pediatric oncology patients: A Quasi-experimental study
Keywords:
Pediatric oncology, patient safety, Surgical Site Infections, traffic light system, wound assessmentAbstract
Background: Pediatric oncology patients are at increased risk of Surgical Site Infections (SSIs) due to immunosuppression associated with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and underlying malignancies. Delayed detection of SSIs may lead to increased morbidity and prolonged hospitalization. Aim: To evaluate the effect of the Traffic Light System (TLS) in the early detection of Surgical Site Infections and improvement of patient safety in pediatric oncology units. Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted on a convenience sample of 120 pediatric oncology patients undergoing major surgical procedures over six months in the Pediatric Oncology Department and Surgical Units of Sohag Oncology Institution. Participants were assigned into a control group receiving routine care and an experimental group managed using the TLS protocol. Data were collected using four structured tools addressing demographic characteristics, wound assessment, clinical outcomes, and nursing usability. Results: The TLS group demonstrated significantly earlier detection of Surgical Site Infections compared with the control group (2.8 ± 0.7 vs. 4.8 ± 1.2 days, p < 0.001). Lower rates of severe wound complications and hospital readmission were also observed among patients managed using the TLS. In addition, nursing staff reported high levels of usability and satisfaction.
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