Catheter Associated Infections

Question 1

What is a tunnel infection?

Answer 1

Tenderness, erythema, and/or induration > 2 cm from catheter exit site, along the SQ tract of a catheter

Question 2

What are sources of catheter related infections?

Answer 2

1. Operator
2. Skin flora
3. Contamination of catheter hub and lumen
4. Contamination of substance infused

Question 3

What is the major source of CAI?

Answer 3

Skin flora

Question 4

What are the risk factors for CAI?

Answer 4

1. Loss of skin integrity
2. Underlying disease
3. Thrombogenicity
4. # of catheter lumens
5. Lack of IV team
6. Duration of placement
7. Emergent line placement
8. Location of catheter
9. Nursing staff variables

Question 5

When to suspect CAI

Answer 5

1. Local cellulitis
2. Bacteremia W/O a source
3. Sepsis W/O a source
4. Non-functioning catheter
5. +ve tip culture
6. Pus at insertion site
7. Rigors during use of catheter

Question 6

What is phlebitis?

Answer 6

Induration or erythema, warmth, and pain or tenderness around catheter exit site