Achieving zero catheter related blood stream infections

March 4, 2008

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A fifteen month period of zero catheter related blood stream infections! That was the result of the implementation of an innovative central line care bundle as described by the author Sophie Harnage. The article makes an interesting read and somewhat expands on the care bundles that have been implemented by the Department of Health in the form of Saving Lives. Sophie describes the following implementation strategies in her article:

Ultrasound guided insertion for all PICC placements.
Full barrier precautions.
Consistent central line dressing management, with the utilisation of chlorhexidine 2%, transparent IV dressing and medicated IV dressing.
Review of the needlefree system in use.
Consistent technique for needlefree septum disinfection.
Flushing - the author describes an 8 hourly flush regime - personal note… I am not sure of the relevance of this practice.
Daily monitoring of PICC’s to encourage early intervention if potential problems are highlighted.

Reference: Harnage S. (2007) Achieving zero catheter related blood stream infections: 15 months success in a community based medical center. JAVA. 12(4), p.218-224