Determinants of Surgical Site Infection Among Operating Room Personnel at Oriental Mindoro Provincial Hospital: Basis for an Enhanced Infection Control Protocol

This quantitative descriptive-correlational study was conducted at Oriental Mindoro Provincial Hospital to examine the determinants of surgical site infections (SSIs) as a basis for an enhanced infection control protocol. The study surveyed surgeons, anesthesiologists, perioperative nurses, and nursing attendants to evaluate the levels of personnel, environmental, organizational, and patient-related factors and their relationship with clinical outcomes such as incidence rates and readmissions. Results revealed that all structural determinants were highly observed (CWM = 3.98), with personnel factors ranking highest (AWM = 4.00), followed by organizational (AWM = 3.98), patient-related (AWM = 3.97), and environmental factors (AWM = 3.95). Pearson correlation analysis indicated a statistically significant relationship between these collective determinants and clinical outcomes (r = 0.06, p = 0.000), resulting in the rejection of the null hypothesis. While personnel possess strong foundational knowledge, the study identified a significant limitation: the absence of feedback mechanisms to track post-discharge patient recovery, creating a gap in clinical data transparency. Consequently, the research underscores the need for an enhanced, adaptable infection control protocol that mandates regular feedback systems, improved environmental surveillance, and optimized staffing to mitigate professional fatigue. This study provides original value by offering a tailored, evidence-based framework for provincial hospitals to bridge systemic gaps and strengthen the connection between daily operative practices and patient safety outcomes.