The aim of these guidelines is to provide a comprehensive range of evidence-based recommendations for interventions to be applied during the pre-, intra- and postoperative periods for the prevention of surgical site infection (SSI), while also considering aspects related to resource availability and values and preferences.

Although the guidelines are intended for surgical patients of all ages, some recommendations do not apply to the pediatric population due to lack of evidence or inapplicability and this is clearly stated.

The primary target audience for these guidelines is the surgical team, that is, surgeons, nurses, technical support staff, anesthetists and any professionals directly providing surgical care. Pharmacists and sterilization unit staff will also be concerned by some aspects of these guidelines. The recommendations are also intended to be used by policy-makers, senior managers and infection prevention and control (IPC) professionals as the basis for developing national and local SSI protocols and policies, and supporting staff education and training.