A serious and potentially life-threatening infection that occurs when bacteria or other pathogens contaminate a central line, leading to bloodstream infection. CLABSI is a significant concern in healthcare settings due to its association with increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs.
The presence or introduction of harmful substances or pathogens into an environment where they are not supposed to be, such as a central line or bloodstream.
A thin, flexible tube inserted into a vein to administer fluids, medications, or blood products directly into the bloodstream.
A set of practices and procedures used to prevent contamination of sterile areas or objects, such as central lines, by microorganisms.
A complex community of microorganisms, such as bacteria, that adhere to surfaces and are encased in a matrix of extracellular polymeric substances. Biofilms can form on the surface of central lines, making them more resistant to antibiotics and immune defenses.
The ability of microorganisms, such as bacteria, to resist the effects of antimicrobial drugs, making infections more difficult to treat and increasing the risk of complications.
Various interventions and protocols implemented to reduce the risk of CLABSI, including proper hand hygiene, sterile insertion techniques, catheter site care, antimicrobial-coated catheters, and antimicrobial stewardship programs.
The systematic collection, analysis, and interpretation of data related to CLABSI rates and associated risk factors to monitor trends, identify outbreaks, and evaluate the effectiveness of prevention efforts.
Continuous efforts to improve healthcare practices and outcomes related to CLABSI prevention through the implementation of evidence-based guidelines, staff education, feedback mechanisms, and multidisciplinary collaboration.
A culture within healthcare organizations that prioritizes patient safety, encourages open communication, promotes teamwork, and emphasizes the responsibility of all staff members in preventing healthcare-associated infections like CLABSI.
Infections that patients acquire during the course of receiving healthcare treatment in a healthcare facility, such as hospitals, clinics, or long-term care facilities. CLABSI is one of the most common and serious HAIs.
A comprehensive strategy that combines multiple evidence-based interventions into a “bundle” or package to prevent CLABSI. This approach typically includes elements such as hand hygiene, maximal barrier precautions during catheter insertion, chlorhexidine skin antisepsis, optimal catheter site selection, and daily assessment of catheter necessity.