Surgical site infections (SSI) have a negative impact on the patients, healthcare providers and healthcare facilities. This online course focuses on surgical site infections and has been designed for nurses and health care professional involved in the care and treatment of surgical patients including infection control nurses, operating room nurses, certified surgical technologists, and others in the hospital setting. The impact of SSI on patients, length of hospital stay and associated costs, will be discussed. Patient-related factors, both endogenous and exogenous, that increase the risk of surgical site infections will be identified. Patient-related risk reduction strategies will address remote site infection, microbial colonization, unintentional hypothermia, and post-op wound contamination. This videotaped presentation is enhanced with PowerPoint slides and audio recordings. Quiz questions are provided at the conclusion of this online activity for earning continuing education credit. The purpose of this activity is to increase awareness of the risk factors for surgical site infection and promote consistent implementation of proven prevention strategies that can better safeguard the health of patients.