6.10. Skin and Soft Tissue Infection - Intravenous-Catheter Associated Infections

Question 1

What type of infection is an Intravenous-Catheter Associated Infection?

Answer 1

Nosocomial Infection

Question 2

How does Intravenous-Catheter Associated Infections normally present?

Answer 2

1. Initially as Skin and Soft Tissue Infections
2. Can develop to Cellulitis
3. Can develop even further to Tissue Necrosis

Question 3

What is commonly associated with Intravenous-Catheter Associated Infections?

Answer 3

Associated Bacteraemia

Question 4

What are the risk factors for an Intravenous-Catheter Associated Infection?

Answer 4

1. Continuous infusion for more than 24 hours
2. Cannula in situ for more than 72 hours
3. Cannula in Lower Limb
4. Patients with Neurological / Neurosurgical problems

Question 5

What is the most common organism, with regards to Intravenous-Catheter Associated Infection?

Answer 5

Staphylococcus Aureus:

1. MSSA
2. MRSA

Question 6

What is the normal pathway of Intravenous-Catheter Associated Infections?

Answer 6

1. This commonly forms a Biofilm which then spills into the Bloodstream
2. It can seed into other places (E.g. Endocarditis, Osteomyelitis)

Question 7

How is a diagnosis of an Intravenous-Catheter Associated Infection made?

Answer 7

1. Clinically

2. Positive Blood Cultures

Question 8

What is the treatment of Intravenous-Catheter Associated Infections?

Answer 8

1. Prevention is more important (e.g. not leaving unused cannula, monitoring, aseptic techniques etc.)
2. Removal of the Cannula
3. Express any pus from the Thrombophlebitis
4. Antibiotics for 14 days
5. Echocardiogram