Final answer:
Staphylococcus aureus is the pathogen most commonly associated with surgical wound infections.
Step-by-step explanation:
The pathogen most commonly associated with surgical wound infections is Staphylococcus aureus. Staphylococcus aureus is a Gram-positive bacterium that frequently colonizes the skin and mucous membranes of healthy individuals. It can cause various infections, including surgical wound infections, if it enters the body through a surgical incision or other means. Staphylococcus aureus produces enzymes and toxins that contribute to its ability to cause infections, and some strains are resistant to antibiotics.