Healthcare-Acquired Infections: Central-Line-Associated Infections (CLABSI)

Definition/Etiology:

• CLABSI- infection in the bloodstream from a central line
• Causes:

Pathophysiology:

• Central line catheter = access

Noticing: Assessment & Recognizing Cues:

• Prevention
  • Avoid Central lines if possible
  • Insert using sterile technique
  • Cleanse (per policy and PRN) with sterile technique
• Assessment
  • Increased temp
  • Insertion site red 
  • Painful
  • Swollen
  • Drainage from the insertion site

Interpreting: Analyzing & Planning:

• Complete Blood Count (CBC)
• Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP)
• Find/confirm the source of infection
  • Blood cultures

Responding: Patient Interventions & Taking Action:

• Antibiotics
• IV fluids
• Prevent sepsis!

Reflecting: Evaluating Patient Outcomes:

• Patient improvement:
  • S/S decline
  • Decreased temp
• Continued treatment:
  • Abx

Linchpins (Key Points):

• An infection is an infection. How do we prevent it? CLABSI/septicemia ≠ sepsis
  • Infection: inflammatory response
  • CLABSI-specific: Bloodstream is affected (s/s)
  • Prevent: Prevent CLABSI
  • Treat: Treat with abx; prevent sepsis