Hospital-acquired venous thromboembolism (VTE) remains a significant source of preventable patient harm. This study of 4,252 high-risk general surgery patients found that only one-third received care in compliance with VTE prophylaxis guidelines. Patients receiving guideline-compliant care experienced shorter lengths of stay (LOS), fewer blood transfusions, and decreased odds of having a VTE, emphasizing the importance of initiating VTE chemoprophylaxis in high-risk general surgery patients.

Fatigue and sleep deprivation of anesthesia providers can result in decreased non-technical skills and psychomotor functioning. This study of 1,200 anesthesia and intensive care trainees in Europe describes the impact of work-related fatigue on well-being, commuting, and potential for medical errors. Two-thirds of respondents reported making or nearly making a medical error after working long hours. In addition to implementing shorter work schedules, the authors also encourage a culture where it is acceptable to admit fatigue, and where resting is encouraged.

Emergency surgery carries an increased risk of death compared to elective surgery. This study used a regional electronic health record (EHR) to examine clinical risk factors associated with mortality in emergency general surgery. Risk factors for both inpatient and 1-year mortality included older age, underweight, neutropenia, and elevated lactate.

Surgical site infections are a common hospital-acquired condition. This clinical guideline reviews the literature and gathers expert opinion to identify generalizable evidence-based strategies to reduce surgical site infections. The authors highlight antimicrobial, preoperative hygiene, glycemic control, and skin preparation procedures to prevent infection.

This qualitative study identified key elements of successful local safety interventions. One prominent strategy was stakeholder ownership of a patient safety issue in a supportive interprofessional learning community.

… of surgical research … J Surg Res … This study reports on a high-fidelity simulation exercise used to train medical …