Introduction:

Surgical site infections are the most frequent infections associated with health care. The education of patients and caregivers is an essential element for their prevention.

Objective:

To evaluate the essential elements associated with the participation of patients in the prevention of surgical site infections.

Method:

Using PubMed and the Joint Commission International as a source of information, we synthesized aspects related to the prevention of surgical site infections.

Development:

Patient education is carried out from the preoperative period until the patient's full recovery and is a required criterion to accredit quality management systems in health institutions. It should focus on the positive modification of risks such as preoperative hygiene, abstention from smoking, glycemic control in diabetic patients, the use of immunosuppressive medication, early mobilization of patients, wound care, and identification and timely management of infections.

Conclusions:

The active participation of the patient and the family in health care and the use of available educational technologies should be promoted.

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