Central line "attention" is their best prevention

A new perfusion system to reduce the burden of central-venous-line-associated bloodstream infections in neonates

BACKGROUND

Central-venous-line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in preterm infants. As there is large variation in the reported effect of multi-modal preventive strategies, it could be relevant to propose new additional strategies.

AIM

To assess the impact of a new perfusion system on CLABSI rate.

METHODS

A before-and-after study was performed in infants born at <32 weeks of gestation or with birth weight <1500 g who required a multi-perfusion system connected to a central venous line. In the first 12-month period ('before'), the pre-existing perfusion system (multiple stopcocks) was used. An intervention period then occurred with implementation of a new perfusion closed system, without change in 'bundles' related to various aspects of central line care. During the second 12-month period ('after'), the CLABSI rate was assessed and compared with the pre-intervention period.

FINDINGS

In total, 313 infants were included in this study (before: N=163; after: N=150), and 46% had birth weight <1000 g. The change in perfusion system resulted in a significant decrease in CLABSI rate from 11.3 to 2.2 per 1000 catheter-days (P<0.001). The period was independently associated with an 88% reduction in the risk of CLABSI after implementation of the new perfusion system [odds ratio (OR) 0.12, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.03-0.39; P<0.001]. The duration of central line use was also associated with CLABSIs (for each additional day: OR 1.05, 95% CI 1.02-1.07; P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Implementation of the new perfusion system was feasible in a large neonatal unit, and reduced the CLABSI rate soon after implementation.

Reduction in Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infection Rates After Implementations of Infection Control Measures at a Level 3 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Advances in neonatology led to survival of micro-preemies, who need central lines. Central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) causes prolonged hospitalization, morbidities, and mortality. Health care team education decreases CLABSIs. The objective was to decrease CLABSIs using evidence-based measures. The retrospective review compared CLABSI incidence during and after changes in catheter care. In April 2011, intravenous (IV) tubing changed from Interlink to Clearlink; IV tubing changing interval increased from 24 to 72 hours. CLABSIs increased. The following measures were implemented: July 2011, reeducation of neonatal intensive care staff on Clearlink; August 2011, IV tubing changing interval returned to 24 hours; September 2011, changed from Clearlink back to Interlink; November 2011, review of entire IV process and in-service on hand hygiene; December 2011, competencies on IV access for all nurses. CLABSIs were compared during and after interventions. Means were compared using the t test and ratios using the χ² test; P <.05. CLABSIs decreased from 4.4/1000 to 0/1000 catheter-days; P < .05. Evidence-based interventions reduced CLABSIs.

Implementation of a Central Line Maintenance Bundle for Dislodgement and Infection Prevention in the NICU

BACKGROUND

Infants in the newborn intensive care unit (NICU) often receive medications or nutritional support for extended periods. Due to the fragility of veins, central lines are often used. Adverse outcomes from central lines such as infections and line dislodgements, where the line terminates in a peripheral vessel rather than centrally, can drastically increase infant morbidity and mortality. Although evidence exists addressing the specialized needs of premature or smaller infants, there is far less evidence regarding infants that are larger, more physiologically complex, and have longer stays.

PURPOSE

Using evidence-based practice strategies, we examined the literature for central line maintenance practices specific to the NICU population and created a care maintenance bundle to reduce infection and line dislodgement rates. Furthermore, we examined implementation of this bundle.

METHODS/SEARCH STRATEGY

A systematic search of PubMed, Cochrane Library, and CINAHL provided evidence for a practice change for central line maintenance for our nontunneled central lines. During project implementation, infection and dislodgement rates for both tunneled and nontunneled lines were examined in order have a control and intervention group.

FINDINGS/RESULTS

Prior to central line maintenance bundle implementation, there were 19 total incidences of central line dislodgements and 5 central line infections (14 dislodgements and 4 infections were from nontunneled lines, 5 dislodgements and 1 infection from a tunneled line). Postintervention there were 1 total dislodgement and 4 central line infections (the dislodgement was from a nontunneled line and all infections were from tunneled lines).

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Although research has shown frequent, scheduled dressing changes using the chlorhexidine patch decreases infection rates, the risk of dislodgement and skin breakdown for NICU infants outweighs the potential benefit of decreased infection.

IMPLICATIONS FOR RESEARCH

Further research is needed to determine whether this central line maintenance bundle would be beneficial for tunneled central lines.

Impact of central line bundle for prevention of umbilical catheter-related bloodstream infections in a neonatal intensive care unit: A pre-post intervention study

BACKGROUND

Central line-associated bloodstream infection is the most common infection associated with healthcare in preterm infants. The purpose of this 18-month cross-sectional study was to evaluate the effectiveness of bundle applications in the prevention of umbilical venous catheter (UVC)-associated bloodstream infections.

METHODS

This study included patients in whom UVCs were inserted and who were diagnosed with central line-associated bloodstream infection between July 1, 2016, and December 31, 2017, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria. During the second 9-month period of the study (April 1, 2017, to December 31, 2017), bundles were implemented.

RESULTS

In the prebundle period, 589 patients were admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit, and 6,769 hospitalization days and 485 UVC days were recorded. Similarly, during the bundle period, 508 patients were admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit, and 7,789 hospitalization days and 508 UVC days were recorded. The UVC-associated bloodstream infection rate was 12.4 per 1,000 catheter days in the prebundle period and decreased to 3.9 per 1,000 catheter days in the bundle period. Thus, after introducing bundle applications, the rate of infection decreased by 68% (P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that bundle application effectively reduced UVC-associated bloodstream infection.

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.

Care bundles to reduce central line-associated bloodstream infections in the neonatal unit: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) are associated with increased mortality, prolonged hospitalisation and increased healthcare costs. Care bundles have reduced CLABSIs in adult intensive care units (ICUs) but replication in paediatric ICUs has had inconsistent outcomes. A systematic review was performed to assess the evidence for the efficacy of care bundles in reducing CLABSIs in the neonatal unit (NNU).

METHODS

MEDLINE, CINAHL and EMBASE were searched from January 2010 up to January 2017. The Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Zetoc and Ethos were searched for additional studies. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs), quasi-experimental and observational studies were eligible. The primary outcome measure was CLABSI rates per 1000 central line, or patient, days. A meta-analysis was performed using random effects modelling.

RESULTS

Twenty-four studies were eligible for inclusion: six were performed in Europe, 12 were in North America, two in Australia and four were in low/middle-income countries. Five were observational studies and 19 were before and after quality improvement studies. No RCTs were found. Meta-analysis revealed a statistically significant reduction in CLABSIs following the introduction of care bundles (rate ratio=0.40 (CI 0.31 to 0.51), p<0.00001), which equates to a 60% reduction in CLABSI rate.

CONCLUSION

There is a substantial body of quasi-experimental evidence to suggest that care bundles may reduce CLABSI rates in the NNU, though it is not clear which bundle elements are effective in specific settings. Future research should focus on determining what processes promote the effective implementation of infection prevention recommendations, and which elements represent essential components of such care bundles.

Risk factors for central venous catheter-related infections in a neonatal population - systematic review

OBJECTIVE

This was a systematic review of the incidence density and risk factors for central venous catheter-related infections in a neonatal population.

DATA SOURCE

The MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane, BDENF, SciELO, and LILACS databases were used without date or language restriction. Studies that analyzed risk factors for bloodstream infections in newborns were identified.

DATA SYNTHESIS

A total of 134 articles were found that met the eligibility criteria. Of these articles, 14 were selected that addressed risk factors for central venous catheter-related infection in neonates. Catheter-related bloodstream infections remain an important complication, as shown by the incidence rates reported in the studies included in this review. The observed risk factors indicate that low birth weight, prematurity, and longer catheter permanence are related to a higher incidence of bloodstream infections. It has been observed that low rates of catheter-related infections, i.e., close to zero, are already a reality in health institutions in developed countries, since they use infection surveillance and control programs.

CONCLUSION

Catheter-related bloodstream infections still show high incidence density rates in developing countries. The authors emphasize the need for further longitudinal studies and the need for better strategies to prevent risk factors, aiming at the reduction of catheter-related infections.

INTERVENTIONS TO DECREASE CATHETER-ASSOCIATED BLOODSTREAM INFECTIONS IN NEWBORNS: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW

ABSTRACT Objective: to perform an integrative review of strategies presented in care bundles to decrease central catheter-associated bloodstream infection among newborns. . Method a search was conducted of the Cochrane Library, IBECS, PubMed, Lilacs, Medline and Scielo catalogues, using the terms "bundle", "catheter-related infection", "infection control", "prevention", "evidence-based nursing"," evidence-based medicine" and" central venous catheter". Inclusion criteria were: papers published from 2009 to April 2014; written in Portuguese, English or Spanish; addressing both neonatal and pediatric populations or just neonatal populations; describing the use and/or assessing care bundles or protocols to control central catheter-associated infection. Results fifteen studies published between 2009 and 2013 were selected. The main information extracted from the studies was systematized as: 1) measures adopted to prevent central catheter-associated bloodstream infection according to level of scientific evidence, and 2) strategies used to implement evidence into health practice. Conclusion there was a variety of practices adopted, some of which are consistent with scientific evidence and some of which are not. Systematization conducted in this study is expected to contribute to practice, facilitating the use of the best evidence in each context, and research indicating gaps in knowledge to be explored in future studies

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.

Very low birthweight infants face an increased risk of bloodstream infections following the removal of umbilical catheters

AIM

This study examined whether there was a temporal association between removing umbilical catheters and bloodstream infections (BSI) in a neonatal intensive care unit, as this is an area of research that has not received sufficient attention.

METHODS

We carried out a retrospective study of all neonates receiving umbilical catheters during 2011 and 2012 in the neonatal intensive care unit at Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden. The time from umbilical catheter removals to the first subsequent BSI was recorded.

RESULTS

A total of 372 infants had umbilical catheters inserted and 146 of these had a birthweight of <1500 g. Antibiotics were discontinued when umbilical catheters were removed in 67 of these low birthweight infants and 20 of them needed to be retreated for BSI within 72 hours. We found that very low birthweight infants had a significantly increased risk of developing BSI if antibiotics were discontinued at the same time as umbilical catheters were removed, rather than being continued after removal (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

This NICU study demonstrated a temporal association between removing umbilical catheters and BSI in very low birthweight infants weighting <1500 g.

[Clinical features and hospital costs of neonatal sepsis caused by bacteria and fungi: a comparative analysis]

OBJECTIVE

To study the clinical features and hospital costs of neonatal sepsis caused by Gram-positive (G(+)) bacteria, Gram-negative (G(-)) bacteria, and fungi.

METHODS

The clinical data of 236 neonates with sepsis were analyzed retrospectively. Among these neonates, 110 had sepsis caused by G(+) bacteria, 68 had sepsis caused by G(-) bacteria, and 58 had sepsis caused by fungi.

RESULTS

Full-term infants accounted for 62% and 38%, respectively, in the G(+) bacteria and G(-) bacteria groups, and preterm infants accounted for 86% in the fungi group. The neonates in the fungi group had significantly lower gestational ages and birth weights than those in the G(+) and G(-) bacteria groups (P<0.05). Compared with the G(+) bacteria group, the G(-) bacteria and fungi groups had significantly higher rates of multiple births (P<0.0125). Compared with the G(+) bacteria and fungi groups, the rates of premature rupture of membranes >18 hours, grade III amniotic fluid contamination, and early-onset sepsis in the G(-) bacteria group were significantly higher (P<0.0125). Compared with the G(-) bacteria and fungi groups, the G(+) bacteria group showed significantly higher rates of abnormal body temperature, omphalitis or herpes as the symptom suggesting the onset of such disease (P<0.0125). The fungi group had significantly higher incidence rates of apnea and low platelet count than the G(+) and G(-) bacteria groups (P<0.0125). The comparison of length of hospital stay and total hospital costs between any two groups showed that the fungi group had a significantly longer hospital stay and significantly higher total hospital costs than the G(+) and G(-) bacteria groups (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Sepsis caused by G(+) bacteria mainly occurs in full-term infants, and most cases of sepsis caused by G(-) bacteria belong to the early-onset type. Sepsis caused by fungi is more common in preterm infants and low birth weight infants, and has high incidence rates of apnea and low platelet count, as well as a longer hospital stay and higher hospital costs than sepsis caused by bacteria.

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.

Scrubbing the hub of intravenous catheters with an alcohol wipe for 15 sec reduced neonatal sepsis

AIM

The aim of this study was to investigate whether scrubbing the hub of intravenous catheters with an alcohol wipe for 15 sec could reduce the incidence of neonatal sepsis in a level-three neonatal intensive care unit.

METHODS

We studied the incidence of neonatal sepsis caused by coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) for 16.5 months before the initiative was launched on May 15, 2012 and then for a further 8.5 months after it was introduced. The hub routine was applied to all intravenous catheters.

RESULTS

During the control period before the initiative was launched, there were nine cases of CoNS sepsis compared with no cases after it was introduced, resulting in a decrease in sepsis incidence from 1.5% to 0% with a risk reduction of 1.5% (0.53-2.58%) (p = 0.06). In the preterm infant population, the incidence of sepsis decreased from 3.6% to 0% (1.1-6.0%) (p = 0.11).

CONCLUSION

Scrubbing the hub of intravenous catheters with an alcohol wipe for 15 sec seemed to be an efficient way of preventing sepsis caused by CoNS in newborn infants. However, the evidence for the benefits will remain weak until a large randomised trial has been completed.

Reduction in Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infection Rates After Implementations of Infection Control Measures at a Level 3 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Advances in neonatology led to survival of micro-preemies, who need central lines. Central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) causes prolonged hospitalization, morbidities, and mortality. Health care team education decreases CLABSIs. The objective was to decrease CLABSIs using evidence-based measures. The retrospective review compared CLABSI incidence during and after changes in catheter care. In April 2011, intravenous (IV) tubing changed from Interlink to Clearlink; IV tubing changing interval increased from 24 to 72 hours. CLABSIs increased. The following measures were implemented: July 2011, reeducation of neonatal intensive care staff on Clearlink; August 2011, IV tubing changing interval returned to 24 hours; September 2011, changed from Clearlink back to Interlink; November 2011, review of entire IV process and in-service on hand hygiene; December 2011, competencies on IV access for all nurses. CLABSIs were compared during and after interventions. Means were compared using the t test and ratios using the χ(2) test; P <.05. CLABSIs decreased from 4.4/1000 to 0/1000 catheter-days; P < .05. Evidence-based interventions reduced CLABSIs.

Prevention of central venous catheter-related infection in the neonatal unit: a literature review

Central venous catheter infections are the leading cause of healthcare-associated bloodstream infections and contribute significantly to mortality and morbidity in neonatal intensive care units. Moreover, infection poses significant economic consequence which increased hospital costs and increased length of hospital stay. Prevention strategies are detailed in guidelines published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States; nevertheless, recent surveys in neonatal units in the United States, and Australia and New Zealand demonstrate these are not always followed. This review discusses the numerous evidence-based strategies to prevent catheter infections including hand hygiene, maximal sterile barriers during insertion, skin disinfection, selection of insertion site, dressings, aseptic non-touch technique, disinfection of catheter hubs/ports, administration set management, prompt removal of catheter, antibiotic locks, systemic antibiotic prophylaxis and chlorhexidine bathing. Furthermore, it will describe different strategies that can be implemented into clinical practice to reduce infection rates. These include the use of care bundles including checklists, education and the use of CVC teams.