Vol. 2, Issue 1, Part A (2025)

Background: Surgical Site Infections (SSIs) remain a major cause of postoperative morbidity, extended hospital stays, and increased healthcare costs globally. Closed Incision Negative Pressure Therapy (ciNPT) has emerged as an effective strategy to prevent SSIs, particularly among high-risk surgical patients. While traditionally managed by physicians, there is growing evidence that trained nursing professionals can successfully implement and monitor ciNPT protocols with outcomes comparable to physician-led interventions.

Objective: This study explores the use of ciNPT by nurses in the prevention of SSIs across various surgical settings. It evaluates the clinical efficacy, implementation strategies, and barriers associated with nurse-led ciNPT application, drawing on current evidence and institutional experiences.

Methods: A narrative review methodology was employed to synthesize clinical trials, cohort studies, and quality improvement reports published between 2010 and 2024. Key databases searched included PubMed, CINAHL, and Scopus. Focus was placed on studies where nurses played a central role in initiating, applying, or monitoring ciNPT devices. Comparative outcomes in infection rates, patient satisfaction, and resource utilization were analyzed, alongside reported barriers to integration.

Results: Findings across diverse surgical disciplines-including cardiothoracic, orthopedic, obstetric, and colorectal surgery-demonstrate that nurse-led ciNPT implementation significantly reduces superficial and deep SSIs. Infection rates were reduced by up to 60% in some studies when compared to standard dressing care. Additionally, nurse-managed ciNPT led to improved wound healing, fewer dressing-related complications, and enhanced patient comfort. However, challenges persist, including inadequate training, cost constraints, regulatory limitations, and variability in institutional support.

Conclusion: ciNPT is a clinically effective intervention for SSI prevention, and nurses-when appropriately trained and supported-can manage this therapy safely and efficiently. The integration of nurse-led ciNPT protocols enhances early intervention, standardizes postoperative care, and contributes to reduced infection-related readmissions. Overcoming current barriers requires systemic investment in education, policy reform, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Expanding the nursing role in ciNPT not only improves clinical outcomes but also represents a progressive shift toward more responsive and team-based surgical care models.