Module 6: CDC Guidelines to Prevent Cath Related Infections

Question 1

Skin Preparation

Answer 1

Before inserting any catheter, it’s crucial to prepare the skin with an appropriate antiseptic to reduce microbial flora and decrease infection risk. The guidelines recommend using >0.5% chlorhexidine preparation with alcohol for central venous and arterial catheters.

Question 2

Catheter Site Dressing Regimens

Answer 2

The guidelines suggest using either sterile gauze or sterile, transparent, semi-permeable dressings to cover the catheter site. Dressings should be replaced if they become damp, loosened, or visibly soiled.

Question 3

Catheter and Catheter Site Care

Answer 3

Regular monitoring and care of the catheter site are essential for preventing infections. This includes not using topical antibiotic ointment or creams on insertion sites (except for dialysis catheters) to avoid promoting fungal infections and antimicrobial resistance.

Question 4

Catheter Securement Devices

Answer 4

The use of sutureless securement devices is recommended to reduce the risk of infection associated with intravascular catheters

Question 5

Use of Antimicrobial/Antiseptic Impregnated Catheters

Answer 5

For patients expected to have a central venous catheter (CVC) for more than five days, and when the rate of catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) is not decreasing despite adherence to other prevention measures, the use of chlorhexidine/silver sulfadiazine or minocycline/rifampin-impregnated CVCs is recommended.

Question 6

Antibiotic Lock Prophylaxis

Answer 6

For patients with long-term catheters who have a history of multiple CRBSIs, the use of prophylactic antimicrobial lock solutions is recommended, provided there’s maximal adherence to aseptic technique.

Question 7

Education and Training

Answer 7

Education and training for healthcare personnel involved in the insertion and maintenance of catheters are critical components of infection prevention.

Question 8

SBUH - Article to Decrease CLABSI

Answer 8

At the outset, SBUH concentrated on the application of sterile technique used at the bedside—that is, through use of the bundle—to insert central venous catheters. Of equal importance was the promotion of early removal of central lines when possible.