Are central line bundles and ventilator bundles effective in critically ill neonates and children?

Central-line-associated bloodstream infection burden among Dutch neonatal intensive care units

BACKGROUND

The establishment of an epidemiological overview provides valuable insights needed for the (future) dissemination of infection-prevention initiatives.

AIM

To describe the nationwide epidemiology of central-line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) among Dutch Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs).

METHODS

Data from 2935 neonates born at <32 weeks' gestation and/or with a birth weight <1500 g admitted to all nine Dutch NICUs over a two-year surveillance period (2019-2020) were analysed. Variations in baseline characteristics, CLABSI incidence per 1000 central-line days, pathogen distribution and CLABSI care bundles were evaluated. Multi-variable logistic mixed-modelling was used to identify significant predictors for CLABSI.

RESULTS

A total of 1699 (58%) neonates received a central line, in which 160 CLABSI episodes were recorded. Coagulase-negative staphylococci were the most common infecting organisms of all CLABSI episodes (N=100, 63%). An almost six-fold difference in the CLABSI incidence between participating units was found (2.91-16.14 per 1000 line-days). Logistic mixed-modelling revealed longer central line dwell-time (adjusted odds ratio (aOR):1.08, P<0.001), umbilical lines (aOR:1.85, P=0.03) and single rooms (aOR:3.63, P=0.02) to be significant predictors of CLABSI. Variations in bundle elements included intravenous tubing care and antibiotic prophylaxis.

CONCLUSIONS

CLABSI remains a common problem in preterm infants in The Netherlands, with substantial variation in incidence between centres. Being the largest collection of data on the burden of neonatal CLABSI in The Netherlands, this epidemiological overview provides a solid foundation for the development of a collaborative platform for continuous surveillance, ideally leading to refinement of national evidence-based guidelines. Future efforts should focus on ensuring availability and extraction of routine patient data in aggregated formats.

Care bundles and peripheral arterial catheters

HIGHLIGHTS

What we know about the topic: Recommendations for the use of vascular access care bundles to reduce infection are followed for different devices. The risk of arterial catheter-related infection is comparable with short-term, non-cuffed central venous catheters. There are practice concerns for clinicians inserting and caring for peripheral arterial catheters. What this paper adds: The selected studies had a theme of decreased infection after using bundled strategies for all devices. Few studies addressed use of bundles for care of peripheral arterial catheters. High-quality research should be performed about using care bundles for insertion and care of arterial catheters.

INTRODUCTION

A scoping review of the literature was performed.

AIMS/OBJECTIVES

To find information on the use of care bundles for care of arterial, central, and peripherally inserted venous catheters.

METHODS

Data was extracted by 2 independent researchers using standardized methodology.

RESULTS

Results of 84 studies included 2 (2.4%) randomized controlled trials, 38 (45.2%) observational studies, 29 (34.5%) quality projects, and 15 (17.9%) reviews. Populations had more adults than pediatric patients. All studies had the most prominent theme of decreased infection in all devices after using bundle strategies.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

The mapping of available evidence strongly supports the use of care bundles to reduce infection in the care of all intravascular devices. However, deficiencies regarding practice concerns about insertion and care of arterial catheters highlight areas for future research with the aim to eliminate the gap in the evidence of studies of care bundles for peripheral arterial catheters.

Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit-Incidence and Strategies for Prevention

The second most prevalent healthcare-associated infection in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) is ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). This review aims to update the knowledge regarding the incidence of neonatal VAP and to summarize possible strategies for prevention. The VAP incidence ranges from 1.4 to 7 episodes per 1000 ventilator days in developed countries and from 16.1 to 89 episodes per 1000 ventilator days in developing countries. This nosocomial infection is linked to higher rates of illness, death, and longer hospital stays, which imposes a substantial financial burden on both the healthcare system and families. Due to the complex nature of the pathophysiology of VAP, various approaches for its prevention in the neonatal intensive care unit have been suggested. There are two main categories of preventative measures: those that attempt to reduce infections in general (such as decontamination and hand hygiene) and those that target VAP in particular (such as VAP care bundles, head of bed elevation, and early extubation). Some of the interventions, including practicing good hand hygiene and feeding regimens, are easy to implement and have a significant impact. One of the measures that seems very promising and encompasses a lot of the preventive measures for VAP are the bundles. Some preventive measures still need to be studied.

A GAVeCeLT bundle for central venous catheterization in neonates and children: A prospective clinical study on 729 cases

BACKGROUND

In the pediatric patient, central venous catheterization may be associated with relevant complications. Though, most of them may be prevented by a wise choice of materials, methods, and techniques. Evidence-based insertion bundles for central venous catheterization have been developed in the adult patient, but not in neonates and children.

METHODS

The Italian Group for Long Term Venous Access Devices (GAVeCeLT) has developed an insertion bundle for central venous catheterization in neonates, infants, and children, which includes seven evidence-based strategies: (1) preprocedural ultrasound evaluation, (2) appropriate aseptic technique, (3) ultrasound guided venipuncture, (4) intraprocedural tip location by non-radiological methods, (5) proper choice of the exit site by tunneling, (6) sutureless securement, and (7) protection of the exit site using glue and transparent membranes. The effectiveness and safety of this bundle has been tested in a prospective study.

RESULTS

All neonates, infants and children requiring a non-emergency central line (except for umbilical venous catheters and epicutaneo-cava catheters) were included in the study. Out of 729 central line insertions, there were no immediate complications (no pneumothorax, no arterial puncture, no malposition); the incidence of early and late complications (local ecchymosis, dislodgment, local pain, exit site infection) was 3.7%; in the first 2 weeks after insertion, no catheter-related bacterial infection or catheter-related thrombosis was recorded.

CONCLUSION

The results of this prospective study strongly validate the hypothesis that an insertion bundle is highly effective in optimizing the safety of the maneuver, reducing immediate, early, and late complications.

Major infections following pediatric cardiac surgery pre- and post-CLABSI bundle implementation

Background

Postoperative infection contributes to the worsening of congenital cardiac surgery (CCS) outcomes. Surgical site infection (SSI), bloodstream infection (BSI) and ventilator associated pneumonia (VAP) are common. An additional bundle of preventive measures against central-line associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) bundle was implemented in April 2019.

Objectives

To compare the incidence of major infections after pediatric CCS before and after the implementation of the CLABSI bundle and to identify risk factors for major infections.

Methods

We conducted a single-center, retrospective study to assess the incidence of major infections including bloodstream infection (BSI), surgical site infection (SSI), and ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) after pediatric CCS one year before and after implementation of the CLABSI bundle during April 2018-March 2020. The demographics and outcomes of the patients were explored, and risk factors for major infections were identified using multivariate analysis.

Results

A total of 548 children (53% male) underwent CCS with a median age of 1.9 years (range 0.01-17.5 years). The median Aristotle Basic Complexity score was 7.1 (range 3-14.5). The CLABSI bundle was applied in 262 patients. Overall mortality was 5.5%. 126 patients (23%) experienced major postoperative infections. During the year after the implementation of the CLABSI bundle, BSI was reduced from 8.4% to 3.1% (p = 0.01), with a smaller reduction in VAP (21% to 17.6%; p = 0.33). The incidence of SSI was unchanged (1.7% to 1.9%; p = 0.77). The independent risk factors for major infections were age at surgery <6 months (p = 0.04), postoperative ventilator usage >2 days (p < 0.01), central line usage >4 days (p = 0.04), and surgery during the pre-CLABSI bundle period (p = 0.01).

Conclusion

Following the implementation of the CLABSI prevention package in our pediatric CCS unit, the incidence of BSI was significantly reduced. The incidence of VAP tended to decrease, while the SSI was unchanged. Sustainability of the prevention package through nurse empowerment and compliance audits is an ongoing challenge.

Healthcare-Associated Infection Prevention Interventions for Neonates in Resource-Limited Settings

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) infections are leading causes of neonatal morbidity and mortality, contributing to an extended hospital stay and increased healthcare costs. Although the burden and impact of HAI/AMR in resource-limited neonatal units are substantial, there are few HAI/AMR prevention studies in these settings. We reviewed the mechanism of action and evidence supporting HAI/AMR prevention interventions, including care bundles, for hospitalized neonates in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC).

Sustaining Improvements in CLABSI Reduction in a Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Unit

Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) are preventable events that increase morbidity and mortality. The objective of this quality project was to reduce the incidence of CLABSIs in a pediatric cardiothoracic intensive care unit.

Methods

Institutional review of an unacceptably high rate of CLABSIs led to the implementation of 4 new interventions. These interventions included: the use of sequential cleaning between line accesses, Kamishibai card audits, central line utilization and entry audits, and proctored simulation of line access.

Results

There was a reduction in CLABSI rate from 1.52 per 1,000 central line days in 2018 to 0.37 per 1,000 central line days in 2020 and 0.32 in 2021. Additionally, central line days per 100 patient days decreased from 77 to 70 days over the study period. The cardiothoracic intensive care unit went 389 days without a CLABSI from October 2020 to November 2021.

Conclusions

Implementation of multiple interventions led to a successful reduction in the incidence of CLABSIs in our unit, with a sustained reduction over 1 year.

Central line placement at ECMO decannulation: A missed opportunity

INTRODUCTION

ECMO is a support modality for refractory critical illness. This study reviews the incidence and utility of central venous line (CVL) placement at pediatric ECMO decannulation.

METHODS

A single-institution retrospective study of patients undergoing open neck decannulation from 2015 to 2019. Patients were divided into two groups:  ≤ 28-days and > 28-days.

RESULTS

Of 65 patients, 31% had a CVL placed at decannulation. Sepsis and pneumonia were the most common indications for ECMO in the older-group compared to CDH in neonates. The most common indications for CVL were hemodialysis (45%), monitoring (25%), and access (25%). 89% of neonates had an access line placed, whereas 73% of the older group received hemodialysis catheters. Median CRRT requirement was 20 days. 85% of lines were functional at time of removal or death. None were removed for infection. 40% of the patients not receiving a CVL at decannulation required one within 30 days.

CONCLUSION

69% of patients did not have a CVL placed at decannulation, however 40% required a CVL within 30 days. Most lines placed at decannulation remained functional and none were removed for infection. Decannulation removes the circuit as a route for vascular access, but it also presents an opportunity to safely place an essential CVL.

[Infection prevention in neonatal intensive care units]

In diesem Beitrag werden einige Besonderheiten der Infektionsprävention bei intensivmedizinisch behandelten Früh und Neugeborenen dargestellt. Ergänzend finden sich Hinweise zum krankenhaushygienischen Management der SARS-CoV-2(„severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2“)-Pandemie und zur Antibiotic Stewardship in der neonatologischen Intensivmedizin.

Timing of parenteral nutrition is associated with adequacy of nutrient delivery and anthropometry in critically ill children: A single-center study

BACKGROUND

The optimal timing of supplemental parenteral nutrition (PN) use in the pediatric intensive care unit (ICU) is unclear. We aimed to describe patterns of PN use in the ICU and the association between the timing of PN initiation and macronutrient delivery and anthropometry.

METHODS

We enrolled patients (aged <18 years) with an ICU stay >3 days were started on PN in the ICU. Initiation within 48 hours of admission was deemed as early, and duration <5 days was deemed as short. We used multivariable analysis to examine the association between PN timing and macronutrient delivery adequacy (percentage of the prescribed target that was actually delivered) and weight-for-age z-score (WAZ) over hospital stay.

RESULTS

Ninety-five patients were included. Median (interquartile range [IQR]) time to initiate PN was 4 (1, 6) days, and in 33%, PN was initiated early. Median (IQR) PN duration was 8 (5, 14) days, and in 16.8%, duration was short. Median (IQR) adequacies for total energy and protein delivery were 55% (40, 74) and 72% (44, 81) in the early PN group compared with 29% (3, 50) and 31% (4, 47), respectively, in the late PN group (P < .001). The late PN group had a 0.50-unit greater decline in mean WAZ compared with the early PN group (95% CI, 0.11-0.89; P = .012).

CONCLUSION

Late PN initiation was associated with significantly lower adequacy of macronutrient delivery and greater decline in WAZ in critically ill children. The relationship between PN timing patient outcomes must be further examined.

Central venous catheter bundle adherence: Kamishibai card (K-card) rounding for central-line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) prevention

OBJECTIVE

To institute facility-wide Kamishibai card (K-card) rounding for central venous catheter (CVC) maintenance bundle education and adherence and to evaluate its impact on bundle reliability and central-line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) rates.

DESIGN

Quality improvement project.

SETTING

Inpatient units at a large, academic freestanding children's hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

Data for inpatients with a CVC in place for ≥1 day between November 1, 2017 and October 31, 2018 were included.

INTERVENTION

A K-card was developed based on 7 core elements in our CVC maintenance bundle. During monthly audits, auditors used the K-cards to ask bedside nurses standardized questions and to conduct medical record documentation reviews in real time. Adherence to every bundle element was required for the audit to be considered "adherent." We recorded bundle reliability prospectively, and we compared reliability and CLABSI rates at baseline and 1 year after the intervention.

RESULTS

During the study period, 2,321 K-card audits were performed for 1,051 unique patients. Overall maintenance bundle reliability increased significantly from 43% at baseline to 78% at 12 months after implementation (P < .001). The hospital-wide CLABSI rate decreased from 1.35 during the 12-month baseline period to 1.17 during the 12-month intervention period, but the change was not statistically significant (incidence rate ratio [IRR], 0.87; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.60-1.24; P = .41).

CONCLUSIONS

Hospital-wide CVC K-card rounding facilitated standardized data collection, discussion of reliability, and real-time feedback to nurses. Maintenance bundle reliability increased after implementation, accompanied by a nonsignificant decrease in the CLABSI rate.

What are the effects of care bundles on the incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia in paediatric and neonatal intensive care units? A systematic review

PURPOSE

The purpose of this review was to ascertain the impact of ventilator bundles on the incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia in mechanically ventilated neonates and children in intensive care units.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted. Key computerised databases (CINAHL, Medline, Embase and Cochrane) as well as additional sources, with no publication date limitations, were extensively searched in January 2018. Inclusion criteria focused on ventilator bundles used in mechanically ventilated neonates and children aged from 0 to 18 years. After identification and inclusion, all studies were critically appraised for quality. Data were analysed and narratively synthesised.

RESULTS

Eight studies of observational and nonrandomised interventional methods design were included in the review. However, the validity of five of the eight studies which were reviewed was considered substandard. In addition, there were variations in the care bundles elements studied. Nevertheless, all these studies demonstrated that the incidences of VAP in mechanically ventilated neonates and children were found to be significantly reduced by the use of ventilator bundles.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

This systematic review determines that ventilator bundles impact positively on the incidence of VAP in critically ill neonates and children in the neonatal intensive care unit and paediatric intensive care unit. However, the variations in the bundle elements and insufficient valid evidence necessitates further research in the area to validate the findings and to ensure standardisation of clinical practice. Prevention of VAP is aimed at avoiding the risk of aspiration in the lungs, colonisation of respiratory tract with pathogenic microorganisms and contamination of respiratory equipment. Moreover, the implementation of evidence-based interventions grouped together is fundamental to improve patient outcomes. It is recommended that a further bona fide research is required to standardise the components of paediatric ventilator bundles.

Preventive bundles to reduce catheter-associated bloodstream infections in neonatal intensive care

This systematic survey includes a total of 27 studies published between 2002 and 2016 on the benefit of preventive bundles for the prevention of central-line associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) in neonatal intensive care. These studies are mainly cohort studies or studies analyzing an interrupted time series before and after intervention. The studies showed heterogeneity in terms of endpoint definitions (CLABSI), details of the implemented measures, and evidence of a publication bias favoring the use of of preventive bundles. The cumulative analysis showed a statistically and clinically significant benefit of preventive bundles to avoid CLABSI in neonatal intensive care.

Variation in infection prevention practices for peripherally inserted central venous catheters: A survey of neonatal units in England and Wales

Background

There is uncertainty about the variation in infection prevention practices for central venous catheters (CVC) in neonatal units (NNUs) and how practices relate to national guidance.

Aim

To evaluate evidence supporting infection prevention practices for CVCs recommended in national guidelines and to compare with reported practices for peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC), a type of CVC widely used in NNUs.

Design

We searched national guidelines for neonates and children to identify infection prevention practices for CVCs and conducted an overview of studies to determine the quality of evidence underpinning recommendations. We surveyed 134 NNUs in England and Wales to ascertain reported practice.

Results

We found low quality evidence supporting CVC care bundles and use of 2% alcoholic chlorhexidine to decontaminate catheter ports and skin before insertion. Moderate quality evidence supported recommendations against routinely replacing CVCs and against chlorhexidine-impregnated dressings. 90% (44/49) of NICUs and 40% (34/85) of LNUs responded. 66% (48/73) of NNUs reported using CVC care bundles for insertion; 62% (45/73) used bundles for maintenance. 63% (32/51) of those using bundles reported monitoring adherence. 85% (61/72) of NNUs did not routinely replace PICCs and 89% (63/71) did not use chlorhexidine-impregnated dressings. Antiseptic use varied with alcoholic 2% chlorhexidine used for skin preparation in 33% (23/71) of NNUs and for catheter ports in 52% (37/71).

Conclusions

Lack of consistency across NNUs in antiseptic use and low rates of reported CVC care bundle use may reflect the low quality of evidence of the effectiveness and safety of these interventions in NNUs. Clinical trials are needed to quantify benefits and harms of infection prevention practices in NNUs.

The idle central venous catheter in the NICU: When should it be removed?

PURPOSE

There is debate regarding the optimal timing of central line removal in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The purpose was to evaluate outcomes of idle peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) and tunneled central venous catheters (TCVCs) and determine the incidence of line-related infections and replacements.

METHODS

Patients in the NICU with T-CVCs placed between 11/2008 and 8/2015 (n=134) or PICCs placed between 7/2013 and 10/2015 (n=467) were included. Demographics and outcomes were compared.

RESULTS

The most common indications for line placement were parenteral nutrition for PICCs (74%) and lack of access for T-CVCs (53%). T-CVCs had a greater proportion of idle days (T-CVC- 25.2% vs PICC- 5.1%, p<0.001) and removal within 24h of discharge (T-CVC-53% vs PICC-5.8%, p<0.001). Conversely, 81% of PICCs were removed within 24h of nonuse. Line replacement after removal for nonuse was required in 6% of PICCs and zero T-CVCs. In both groups, the central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) rate was lower in idle lines compared to ones in use.

CONCLUSION

Patients treated with PICCs and T-CVCs are different populations and should have different guidelines for removal. In neonates with difficult access, the low risk of CLABSIs in idle surgically placed catheters may justify maintaining access until discharge.

TYPE OF STUDY

Treatment study.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Supraclavicular catheterization of the brachiocephalic vein: a way to prevent or reduce catheter maintenance-related complications in children

Placement of a central venous catheter (CVC) in the brachiocephalic vein (BCV) via the ultrasound (US)-guided supraclavicular approach was recently described in children. We aimed to determine the CVC maintenance-related complications at this site compared to the others (i.e., the femoral, the subclavian, and the jugular). We performed a retrospective data collection of prospectively registered data on CVC in young children hospitalized in a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) during a 4-year period (May 2011 to May 2015). The primary outcome was a composite of central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) and deep-vein thrombosis (CLAT) according to the CVC site. Two hundred and twenty-five children, with respective age and weight of 7.1 (1.3-40.1) months and 7.7 (3.6-16) kg, required 257 CVCs, including 147 (57.2%) inserted in the BCV. The risk of the primary outcome was lower in the BCV than in the other sites (5.4 vs 16.4%; OR: 0.29; 95% CI: 0.12-0.70; p = 0.006). CLABSI incidence density rate (2.8 vs 8.96 per 1000 catheter days, p < 0.001) and CLAT incidence rate (2.7 vs 10%, p = 0.016) were also lower at this site.

CONCLUSION

BCV catheterization via the US-guided supraclavicular approach may decrease CVC maintenance-related complications in children hospitalized in a PICU. What is Known: • Placement of a central venous catheter (CVC) in children is associated with mechanical risks during insertion, and with infectious and thrombotic complications during its maintenance. • Ultrasound (US)-guided supraclavicular catheterization of the brachiocephalic vein (BCV) is feasible in infants and children. What is New: • This observational study suggested that BCV catheterization via the US-guided supraclavicular approach was associated with a lower risk of CVC insertion and maintenance-related complications, compared with the other catheterization sites.

Device-associated infections in a paediatric intensive care unit in Pakistan

This study assessed the effect of implementation of active infection control and surveillance on the occurrence of device-associated infections (DAIs) in a paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) from 2012 to 2015. There were 1378 patients, equating to 4632 patient-days, on the PICU, and 29 DAI episodes, giving an incidence rate of 2.1% and an incidence density rate of 6.26 per 1000 patient-days. The rates of central-line-associated bloodstream infections, ventilator-associated pneumonia and catheter-related urinary tract infections were 7/1000 central-line-days, 1.17/1000 ventilator-days and 0.24/1000 urinary-catheter-days, respectively. Despite the overall low rate of DAIs in the PICU, there was a relatively high rate of central-line-associated bloodstream infections.

Avoidance of Hospital-Acquired Infections in Pediatric Cardiac Surgical Patients

OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this review are to discuss the prevalence and risk factors associated with the development of hospital-acquired infections in pediatric patients undergoing cardiac surgery and the published antimicrobial prophylaxis regimens and rational approaches to the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of nosocomial infections in these patients.

DATA SOURCE

MEDLINE and PubMed.

CONCLUSION

Hospital-acquired infections remain a significant source of potentially preventable morbidity and mortality in pediatric cardiac surgical patients. Through improved understanding of these conditions and implementation of avoidance strategies, centers caring for these patients may improve outcomes in this vulnerable population.

Central-Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections in Québec Intensive Care Units: Results from the Provincial Healthcare-Associated Infections Surveillance Program (SPIN)

BACKGROUND Following implementation of bundled practices in 2009 in Quebec and Canadian intensive care units (ICUs), we describe CLABSI epidemiology during the last 8 years in the province of Québec (Canada) and compare rates with Canadian and American benchmarks. METHODS CLABSI incidence rates (IRs) and central venous catheter utilization ratios (CVCURs) by year and ICU type were calculated using 2007-2014 data from the Surveillance Provinciale des Infections Nosocomiales (SPIN) program. Using American and Canadian surveillance data, we compared SPIN IRs to rates in other jurisdictions using standardized incidence ratios (SIRs). RESULTS In total, 1,355 lab-confirmed CLABSIs over 911,205 central venous catheter days (CVC days) were recorded. The overall pooled incidence rate (IR) was 1.49 cases per 1,000 CVC days. IRs for adult teaching ICUs, nonteaching ICUs, neonatal ICUs (NICUs), and pediatric ICUs (PICUs) were 1.04, 0.91, 4.20, and 2.15 cases per 1,000 CVC days, respectively. Using fixed SPIN 2007-2009 benchmarks, CLABSI rates had decreased significantly in all ICUs except for PICUs by 2014. Rates declined by 55% in adult teaching ICUs, 52% in adult nonteaching ICUs, and 38% in NICUs. Using dynamic American and Canadian CLABSI rates as benchmarks, SPIN adult teaching ICU rates were significantly lower and adult nonteaching ICUs had lower or comparable rates, whereas NICU and PICU rates were higher. CONCLUSION Québec ICU CLABSI surveillance shows declining CLABSI rates in adult ICUs. The absence of a decrease in CLABSI rate in NICUs and PICUs highlights the need for continued surveillance and analysis of factors contributing to higher rates in these populations. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2016;1-9.

Applying Adult Ventilator-associated Pneumonia Bundle Evidence to the Ventilated Neonate

BACKGROUND

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) in neonates can be reduced by implementing preventive care practices. Implementation of a group, or bundle, of evidence-based practices that improve processes of care has been shown to be cost-effective and to have better outcomes than implementation of individual single practices.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this article is to describe a safe, effective, and efficient neonatal VAP prevention protocol developed for caregivers in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Improved understanding of VAP causes, effects of care practices, and rationale for interventions can help reduce VAP risk to neonatal patients.

METHOD

In order to improve care practices to affect VAP rates, initial and annual education occurred on improved protocol components after surveying staff practices and auditing documentation compliance.

FINDINGS/RESULTS

In 2009, a tertiary care level III NICU in the Midwestern United States had 14 VAP cases. Lacking evidence-based VAP prevention practices for neonates, effective adult strategies were modified to meet the complex needs of the ventilated neonate. A protocol was developed over time and resulted in an annual decrease in VAP until rates were zero for 20 consecutive months from October 2012 to May 2014.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

This article describes a VAP prevention protocol developed to address care practices surrounding hand hygiene, intubation, feeding, suctioning, positioning, oral care, and respiratory equipment in the NICU.

IMPLICATIONS FOR RESEARCH

Implementation of this VAP prevention protocol in other facilities with appropriate monitoring and tracking would provide broader support for standardization of care. Individual components of this VAP protocol could be studied to strengthen the inclusion of each; however, bundled interventions are often considered stronger when implemented as a whole.

Immunologic and Infectious Diseases in Pediatric Cardiac Critical Care: Proceedings of the 10th International Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Society Conference

Since the inception of the Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Society (PCICS) in 2003, remarkable advances in the care of children with critical cardiac disease have been developed. Specialized surgical approaches, anesthesiology practices, and intensive care management have all contributed to improved outcomes. However, significant morbidity often results from immunologic or infectious disease in the perioperative period or during a medical intensive care unit admission. The immunologic or infectious illness may lead to fever, which requires the attention and resources of the cardiac intensivist. Frequently, cardiopulmonary bypass leads to an inflammatory state that may present hemodynamic challenges or complicate postoperative care. However, inflammation unchecked by a compensatory anti-inflammatory response may also contribute to the development of capillary leak and lead to a complicated intensive care unit course. Any patient admitted to the intensive care unit is at risk for a hospital acquired infection, and no patients are at greater risk than the child treated with mechanical circulatory support. In summary, the prevention, diagnosis, and management of immunologic and infectious diseases in the pediatric cardiac intensive care unit is of paramount importance for the clinician. This review from the tenth PCICS International Conference will summarize the current knowledge in this important aspect of our field.

The Use and Effectiveness of Bundles for Prevention of Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections in Neonates: A Review of the Literature

Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) are an important cause of increased morbidity, mortality, and costs in neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) patients. In recent years, central line bundles have been developed and implemented as a means to reduce infection rates in intensive care units. The objective of this review was to describe central line bundles that are utilized in the neonatal population and evaluate the current evidence on the effectiveness of bundles for prevention of CLABSIs in the NICU. This review shows that care bundles have been successfully used in NICUs (as part of both single-site quality improvement initiatives and large multisite collaboratives) to decrease CLABSI rates. The individual components that comprise the bundle between individual studies varied, but all studies showed a significant reduction in CLABSI rates. The pre- and postintervention design employed by these studies does not allow for conclusions to be drawn as to what specific bundle components are most effective in reducing rates. Further research is needed both to examine the effectiveness of specific components or combinations of components in the bundle and to examine factors that are associated with implementation and adherence to bundles.

Effectiveness of insertion and maintenance bundles to prevent central-line-associated bloodstream infections in critically ill patients of all ages: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Central-line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) are a major problem in intensive care units (ICUs) worldwide. We aimed to quantify the effectiveness of central-line bundles (insertion or maintenance or both) to prevent these infections.

METHODS

We searched Embase, MEDLINE OvidSP, Web-of-Science, and Cochrane Library to identify studies reporting the implementation of central-line bundles in adult ICU, paediatric ICU (PICU), or neonatal ICU (NICU) patients. We searched for studies published between Jan 1, 1990, and June 30, 2015. For the meta-analysis, crude estimates of infections were pooled by use of a DerSimonian and Laird random effect model. The primary outcome was the number of CLABSIs per 1000 catheter-days before and after implementation. Incidence risk ratios (IRRs) were obtained by use of random-effects models.

FINDINGS

We initially identified 4337 records, and after excluding duplicates and those ineligible, 96 studies met the eligibility criteria, 79 of which contained sufficient information for a meta-analysis. Median CLABSIs incidence were 5·7 per 1000 catheter-days (range 1·2-46·3; IQR 3·1-9·5) on adult ICUs; 5·9 per 1000 catheter-days (range 2·6-31·1; 4·8-9·4) on PICUs; and 8·4 per 1000 catheter-days (range 2·6-24·1; 3·7-16·0) on NICUs. After implementation of central-line bundles the CLABSI incidence ranged from 0 to 19·5 per 1000 catheter-days (median 2·6, IQR 1·2-4·4) in all types of ICUs. In our meta-analysis the incidence of infections decreased significantly from median 6·4 per 1000 catheter-days (IQR 3·8-10·9) to 2·5 per 1000 catheter-days (1·4-4·8) after implementation of bundles (IRR 0·44, 95% CI 0·39-0·50, p<0·0001; I(2)=89%).

INTERPRETATION

Implementation of central-line bundles has the potential to reduce the incidence of CLABSIs.

FUNDING

None.

Impact of a modified Broviac maintenance care bundle on bloodstream infections in paediatric cancer patients

Background: During intensive chemotherapy, bloodstream infection (BSI) represents an important complication in paediatric cancer patients. Most patients carry a long-term central venous access device (CVAD). Improved maintenance care of these vascular catheters may decrease the risk of BSI.

Methods: Intervention study (adapted CVAD prevention protocol) with two observation periods (P1: 09-2009 until 05-2011; P2: 09-2011 until 05-2013); prospective surveillance of all laboratory confirmed BSIs. In P2, ready to use sterile NaCl 0.9% syringes were used for CVAD flushing and octenidine/isopropanol for the disinfection of catheter hubs and 3-way stopcocks.

Results: During P1, 84 patients were included versus 81 patients during P2. There were no significant differences between the two patient populations in terms of median age, gender, underlying malignancy or disease status (first illness or relapse). Nearly all CVADs were Broviac catheters. The median duration from implantation to removal of the CVAD was 192 days (Inter-quartile-range (IQR); 110–288 days) in P1 and 191 days (IQR; 103–270 days) in P2. 28 BSI were diagnosed in 22 patients in P1 (26% of all patients experienced at least one BSI) and 15 BSI in 12 patients in P2 (15% of all patients). The corresponding results for incidence density (ID) were 0.44 (CI95 0.29–0.62) for P1 vs. 0.34 (0.19–0.53) BSI per 100 inpatient days for P2 and for incidence rate (IR) 7.76 (5.16–10.86) in P1 vs. 4.75 (2.66–7.43) BSI per 1,000 inpatient CVAD utilization days. In P1, 9 BSI were caused by CoNS vs. only 2 in P2 (IR 2.49; CI95 0.17–4.17 vs. 0.63; CI95 0.08–1.72). In P1 two BSI (7%) lead to early removal of the device. During P2 one CVAD was prematurely removed due to a Broviac-related BSI (6.7%).

Conclusion: The preventive protocol investigated in this study led to a reduction of BSI in paediatric cancer patients. This result was clinically relevant but – due to insufficient power in a single centre observation – the difference did not reach statistical significance. The most pronounced trend in BSI reduction was observed for CoNS infections. Thus, improving maintenance care of the CVAD may result in lower CVAD-linked infection rates. The higher acquisition cost of the ready to use NaCl 0.9% flushing syringes and octenidine/propanol hub disinfection were probably balanced by cost savings in the intervention period.

The first six years of surveillance in pediatric and neonatal intensive care units in Turkey

BACKGROUND

Patients in resourced-limited neonatal and pediatric intensive care units (NICU and PICU) are vulnerable to healthcare associated infections (HAI). We report the incidence of HAI, multidrug resistant microorganisms (MDROs) and the pattern of antibiotic usage in the first six years of a surveillance program in a teaching hospital in Turkey.

METHODS

Between 2007 and 2012 surveillance data for HAI, MDROs and antibiotic usage were collected from the infection control department, pathology, hospital admissions and pharmacy. In 2009 hand hygiene auditing was introduced. Hand sanitizer usage was expressed as liters per 1000 patient-days. Antibiotic usage was presented as defined daily doses (DDD). Evidence of change in the incidence of HAI was tested using Poison regression modeling.

RESULTS

The rate of gram negative MDRO in PICU increased significant between 2007 and 2012 (IRR 1.5, P = 0.033) but remained unchanged in NICU (P = 0.824). By 2012 ceftriaxone prescribing in PICU had decreased while carbapenem prescribing increased by 80 %. In NICU carbapenem decreased by 42 % and betalactam decreased by 29 %. Hand hygiene compliance significantly improved in PICU (IRR 1.9, p < 0.001) and NICU (IRR 2.2, p < 0.001) but compliance remained modest after three years with inconsistent levels across the 5 moments.

CONCLUSION

The early years of our infection control program highlights the endemicity of HAI and MDROs in our NICU and PICU. The consistent pattern of antibiotic usage, endemic MROs in PICU and modest hand hygiene clearly provide strategic focuses for intervention.

Is zero central line-associated bloodstream infection rate sustainable? A 5-year perspective

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Adoption and implementation of evidence-based measures for catheter care leads to reductions in central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) rates in the NICU. The purpose of this study is to evaluate whether this rate reduction is sustainable for at least 1 year and to identify key determinants of this sustainability at the NICU of the Floating Hospital for Children at Tufts Medical Center.

METHODS

We reviewed the incidence of CLABSIs in the NICU temporally to the implementation of new practice policies and procedures, from July 2008 to December 2013.

RESULTS

Adoption of standardized care practices, including bundles and checklists, was associated with a significant reduction of the CLABSI rate to zero for >370 consecutive days in our NICU in 2012. Overall, our CLABSI rates decreased from 4.1 per 1000 line days in 2009 (13 infections; 3163 line days) to 0.94 in 2013 (2 infections; 2115 line days), which represents a 77% reduction over a 5-year period. In the first quarter of 2013, there was a brief increase in CLABSI rate to 3.3 per 1000 line days; after a series of interventions, the CLABSI rate was maintained at zero for >600 days. Ongoing training, surveillance, and vigilance with catheter insertion and maintenance practices and improved documentation were identified as key drivers for success.

CONCLUSIONS

High-quality training, strict compliance with evidence-based guidelines, and thorough documentation is associated with significant reductions in CLABSIs. Mindful organizing may lead to a better understanding of what goes into a unit's ability to handle peak demands and sustain extraordinary performance in the long-term.

Central line-associated blood stream infections in pediatric intensive care units: Longitudinal trends and compliance with bundle strategies

BACKGROUND

Knowing the temporal trend central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) rates among U.S. pediatric intensive care units (PICUs), the current extent of central line bundle compliance, and the impact of compliance on rates is necessary to understand what has been accomplished and can be improved in CLABSI prevention.

METHODS

This is a longitudinal study of PICUs in National Healthcare Safety Network hospitals and a cross-sectional survey of directors and managers of infection prevention and control departments regarding PICU CLABSI prevention practices, including self-reported compliance with elements of central line bundles. Associations between 2011-2012 PICU CLABSI rates and infection prevention practices were examined.

RESULTS

Reported CLABSI rates decreased during the study period, from 5.8 per 1,000 line days in 2006 to 1.4 in 2011-2012 (P < .001). Although 73% of PICUs had policies for all central line prevention practices, only 35% of those with policies reported ≥95% compliance. PICUs with ≥95% compliance with central line infection prevention policies had lower reported CLABSI rates, but this association was statistically insignificant.

CONCLUSION

There was a nonsignificant trend in decreasing CLABSI rates as PICUs improved bundle policy compliance. Given that few PICUs reported full compliance with these policies, PICUs increasing their efforts to comply with these policies may help reduce CLABSI rates.

Prevention of healthcare-associated infections in neonates: room for improvement

Infants in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) are highly susceptible to infection due to the immaturity of their immune systems. Healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs) are associated with prolonged hospital stay, and represent a significant risk factor for neurological development problems and death. Improving HCAI control is a priority for NICUs. Many factors contribute to the occurrence of HCAIs in neonates such as poor hand hygiene, low nurse–infant ratios, environmental contamination and unnecessary use of antibiotics. Prevention is based on improving neonatal management, avoiding unnecessary use of central venous catheters, restricting use of antibiotics and H2 blockers, and introducing antifungal prophylaxis if necessary. Quality improvement interventions to reduce HCAIs in neonates seem to be the cornerstone of infection control.

Default options in the ICU: widely used but insufficiently understood

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Default options dramatically influence the behavior of decision makers and may serve as effective decision support tools in the ICU. Their use in medicine has increased in an effort to improve efficiency, reduce errors, and harness the potential of healthcare technology.

RECENT FINDINGS

Defaults often fall short of their predicted influence when employed in critical care settings as quality improvement interventions. Investigations reporting the use of defaults are often limited by variations in the relative effect across sites. Preimplementation experiments and long-term monitoring studies are lacking.

SUMMARY

Defaults in the ICU may help or harm patients and clinical efficiency depending on their format and use. When constructing and encountering defaults, providers should be aware of their powerful and complex influences on decision making. Additional evaluations of the appropriate creation of healthcare defaults and their resulting intended and unintended consequences are needed.

Risk of bloodstream infection in children admitted to paediatric intensive care units in England and Wales following emergency inter-hospital transfer

Purpose

Adherence to full sterile procedures may be compromised when central venous catheters are inserted as part of emergency resuscitation and stabilisation, particularly outside the intensive care unit. Half of emergency admissions to paediatric intensive care units (PICU) in the UK occur after stabilisation at other hospitals. We determined whether bloodstream infection (BSI) occurred more frequently in children admitted to PICU after inter-hospital transfer compared to within-hospital admissions.

Methods

Data on emergency admissions to 20 PICUs in England and Wales for children <16 years between 2003–2012 were linked from the national PICU audit database (PICANet) and national infection surveillance (LabBase2). PICU-acquired BSI was defined as any positive blood culture sampled between 2 days after admission and 2 days following discharge from PICU.

Results

A total of 32,861/62,515 (53 %) admissions were inter-hospital transfers. Multivariable regression showed no significant difference in rates of PICU-acquired BSI by source of admission (incidence-rate ratio for inter-hospital transfer versus within-hospital admission = 0.97; 95 % CI 0.87–1.07) after adjusting for other risk-factors. Rates decreased more rapidly between 2003 and 2012 for inter-hospital transfers: 17.0 % (95 % CI 14.9–19.0 % per year) compared with 12.4 % (95 % CI 9.9–14.9 % per year) for within-hospital admissions. The median time to first PICU-acquired BSI did not differ significantly between inter-hospital transfers (7 days; IQR 4–13) and within-hospital admissions (8 days; IQR 4–15).

Conclusions

Nationally, inter-hospital transfer is no longer a significant risk factor for PICU-acquired BSI. Given the large proportion of infection occurring in the second week of admission, initiatives to further reduce PICU-acquired BSI should focus on maintaining sterile procedures after admission.

Compliance with prevention practices and their association with central line-associated bloodstream infections in neonatal intensive care units

BACKGROUND

Bundles and checklists have been shown to decrease the rates of central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs), but implementation of these practices and association with CLABSI rates have not been described nationally. We describe implementation and levels of compliance with preventive practices in a sample of US neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) and assess their association with CLABSI rates.

METHODS

An online survey assessing infection prevention practices was sent to hospitals participating in National Healthcare Safety Network CLABSI surveillance in October 2011. Participating hospitals permitted access to their NICU CLABSI rates. Multivariable regressions were used to test the association between compliance with NICU-specific CLABSI prevention practices and corresponding CLABSI rates.

RESULTS

Overall, 190 level II/III and level III NICUs participated. The majority of NICUs had written policies (84%-93%) and monitored compliance with bundles and checklists (88%-91%). Reporting ≥95% compliance for any of the practices ranged from 50%-63%. Reporting of ≥95% compliance with insertion checklist and assessment of daily line necessity were significantly associated with lower CLABSI rates (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Most of the NICUs in this national sample have instituted CLABSI prevention policies and monitor compliance, although reporting compliance ≥95% was suboptimal. Reporting ≥95% compliance with select CLABSI prevention practices was associated with lower CLABSI rates. Future studies should focus on identifying and improving compliance with effective CLABSI prevention practices in neonates.