PREVENTION OF CENTRAL VENOUS
CATHETER INFECTIONS
Many recent studies have shown that the prevention of
CRBSIs is achievable through large-scale quality improvement
projects that involve a bundle of evidence-based
interventions.189,190 The Health Care Infection Control
Practices Advisory Committee recently released updated
multidisciplinary guidelines for the prevention of intravascular
catheter-related infections.191 Recommendations
include the use of ultrasound guidance for line
placement,192 skin preparation with chlorhexidine and
alcohol,193 chlorhexidine sponge for site dressing,194 antimicrobial-
impregnated CVCs,195 and 2% chlorhexidine
wash for daily skin cleansing,196 along with maximal sterile
barrier. The new guidelines also emphasize that only
trained personnel should be assigned these tasks and that
periodic assessment of these individuals should occur.