Preventing Hospital Infections - Central Line Associated Bloodstream Infections

by Daniel J. O'Brien [email protected]

Central line bloodstream infections are very serious hospital infections which can occur as a result of placement of a central line. Read more about central line infections. Staphylococcus aureus and staphylococcus epidermidis are two kinds of bacteria which are the usual culprits behind these infections. Because of increased antibiotic resistance, these kinds of bacterial infections are often fatal.

The reality is that central line bloodstream infections can be prevented. By following five simple steps*, these kinds of hospital infections can be reduced significantly:

1. Wash your hands
2. Use an antiseptic (chlorhexidine)
3. Use full barrier/sterile drapes
4. Avoid the femoral site (because it has a much higher infection rate)
5. Remove the catheter when not needed

In addition to these simple steps, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality has approved an exhaustive checklist designed to decrease these kinds of infections. Click here to view the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality's approved central line insertion checklist. Some steps from the checklist include:    

1. Obtain supervision if needed
2. Confirm hand washing/sanitizing immediately prior to insertion                
3. Use a cap, mask, sterile gown/gloves, eye protection, etc.
4. Ensure proper positioning to prevent air embolism                 
5. Sterilize procedure site (chlorhexidine)                  
6. Use sterile technique to drape from head to toe
7. Clamp any ports not used during insertion (to avoid air embolism, clamp all but distal port)
8. Clean blood from site using antiseptic agent (chlorhexidine)
9. Apply sterile dressing                       
10. Verify placement by x-ray

New Jersey Medical Malpractice Lawyers Who Handle Infection Cases

Patients who have suffered an infection may be eligible for financial compensation for medical treatment, lost wages and pain and suffering. If you or a loved one would like to discuss a potential medical malpractice case in New Jersey involving an infection, contact our office for a free, no obligation consultation. Our lawyers handle medical malpractice cases against New Jersey hospitals, doctors, surgeons, laboratories and more. Our lawyers have the expertise and resources of a large 200 lawyer firm to help prosecute these cases. 877.944.8396  Click here for NJ medical malpractice legal articles.

*Dr. Peter Provonost, "All Things Considered" Interview, NPR, Dec. 9, 2007 (Accessed: Jan. 19, 2013)

Disclaimer: This website does not provide any legal advice or create any attorney-client relationship. Each case is unique and requires review by a qualified attorney. Discussion of prior outcomes or results is no guarantee of the same or similar outcomes in current or future cases.