Objective To investigate the rationality of perioperative prophylactic use of antibacterial agents by the tumor patients in a hospital, and offer evidence for reinforcing the rational use and standard management of antibacterial agents. Methods According to the guide of prophylactic antibacterial agents in perioperative period and the relevant standards, the medical records of 337 patients with tumor surgery from July 2012 to June 2013 were retrospectively reviewed and analyzed, the application status of antibacterial agents in perioperative period were rationally evaluated. Results The utilization rate of preventive antibacterial agents is 63.0％ in the patients with Ⅰtype incision and the utilization rate of preventive antibacterial agents is 92.4％ in the patients with Ⅱ type incision. Among those antibacterial agents, the frequency of use of cefoperazone sulbactam is highest. The percent of infection after operation in 24～48 h, 3～7 d, >7 d group were 5.36％, 4.69％, 19.57％, respectively. No difference of infection percents was found between 24～48 h and 3～7 d group (P>0.05). The percent of infection in >7 d group was higher than that in 24～48 h or 3～7 d group (P<0.05). The main problems such as not confirming medication indicator、improper drug selection、inappropriate time of initial administration、prolonged application, irrational use in dosage and administration exist in the perioperative prophylactic use of antibacterial agents. Conclusion Application of preventive antibacterial agents to patients of tumor surgery perioperation period is not reasonable. It is suggested to intensify supervison and regulate the rational use of antibacterial agents.