Reducing the risks of surgical site infection: the importance of the multidisciplinary team.

Surgical site infection (SSI), which can range from superficial infection to life-threatening problems, puts extra strain on healthcare resources and can have a significant impact on patient quality of life. The majority of SSIs are preventable, with different members of the multidisciplinary team (MDT) playing their part at every stage of the patient journey from preoperative assessment to post-discharge follow up. Effective communication and cooperation between members of the MDT is key. This article provides an overview of the input at different stages along the patient journey.

Lessons learned from more than two decades of HIV/AIDS prevention efforts: implications for people who are deaf or hard of hearing.

In contrast with the nearly 30 years of HIV/AIDS research with the hearing community, data on HIV infection among persons who are deaf and hard of hearing is primarily anecdotal. Although the few available estimates suggest that deaf and hard of hearing persons are disproportionately affected by HIV infection, no surveillance systems are in place to identify either frequency or mode of HIV infection within this population. Moreover, to date, all empirically validated HIV prevention interventions have relied on communication strategies developed for persons who hear. Therefore, understanding and developing effective prevention methods is crucial for persons who are deaf or hard of hearing. The authors explore (a) factors among this population that may contribute to HIV-related behaviors, (b) four key concepts consistently included in successful interventions, and (c) practical ways in which to use this information to tailor effective intervention strategies for this population.