A randomized, prospective clinical trial to assess the potential infection risk associated with the PosiFlow needleless connector

What blood conservation practices are effective at reducing blood sampling volumes and other clinical sequelae in intensive care? A systematic review

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to critically appraise and synthesise evidence for blood conservation strategies in intensive care. Blood sampling is a critical aspect of intensive care to guide clinical decision-making. Repeated blood sampling can result in blood waste and contamination, leading to iatrogenic anaemia and systemic infection.

REVIEW METHOD USED

Cochrane systematic review methods were used including meta-analysis, and independent reviewers.

DATA SOURCES

A systematic search was conducted in Medline, CINAHL, PUBMED and EMBASE databases. The search was limited to randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and cluster RCTs, published in English between 2000 and 2021.

REVIEW METHODS

Paired authors independently assessed database search results and identified eligible studies. Trials comparing any blood conservation practice or product in intensive care were included. Primary outcomes were blood sample volumes and haemoglobin change. Secondary outcomes included proportion of patients receiving transfusions and infection outcomes. Quality appraisal employed the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. Meta-analysis using random effects approach and narrative synthesis summarised findings.

RESULTS

Eight studies (n = 1027 patients), all RCTs were eligible. Six studies included adults, one studied paediatrics and one studied preterm infants. Seven studies evaluated a closed loop blood sampling system, and one studied a conservative phlebotomy protocol. Studies were of low to moderate quality. Meta-analysis was not possible for interventions targeting blood sample volumes or haemoglobin. Decreased blood sample volumes reported in four studies were attributable to a closed loop system or conservative phlebotomy. No study reported a significant change in haemoglobin. Meta-analysis demonstrated that use of a closed system (compared to open system) reduced the proportion of patients receiving transfusion [Risk Ratio (RR) 0.65, 95% CI 0.46-0.92; 287 patients] and reduced intraluminal fluid colonisation [RR 0.25, 95% CI 0.07-0.58; 500 patients].

CONCLUSIONS

Limited evidence demonstrates closed loop blood sampling systems reduced transfusion use and fluid colonisation. Simultaneous effectiveness-implementation evaluation of these systems and blood conservation strategies is urgently required.

PROSPERO PROTOCOL REGISTRATION REFERENCE

CRD42019137227.

The impact of central line bundles on the timing of catheter-associated bloodstream infections and their microbiological distribution in critically ill children

Catheter-associated bloodstream infection, also known as CLABSI, is the most serious consequence of central venous access devices. These infections increase the risk of mortality and morbidity. The use of central line bundles in clinical settings is increasing worldwide with the purpose of lowering the risk of catheter-associated bloodstream infections. In this study, we investigated the effect of implementing a central line bundle for the prevention of CLABSIs, the distribution of pathogens, and the duration of time it took for CLABSIs to develop in patients who had subclavian-inserted central venous catheters. This research project was a cross-sectional study investigation carried out in a pediatric tertiary teaching hospital. Participants consisted of children who had been admitted to the pediatric critical care unit with subclavian catheters during a period of 13 years. We compared the prebundle period with the bundle period for CLABSI specifically focusing on the time to infection, the number of polymicrobial infections, the proportion of Candida parapsilosis, and the percentage of Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS). The "prebundle period" included the period from May 2007 to May 2013, and the "bundle period" included the period from June 2013 to June 2020. Throughout the course of the study, a total of 286 cases of CLABSI were documented. Among these patients, 141 (49.3%) had CLABSIs associated with subclavian catheters. During the prebundle period, 55 CLABSIs were diagnosed in 5235 central line days, with an overall rate of 10.5 CLABSIs per 1000 central line days; after the implementation of central line bundle, 86 CLABSIs were diagnosed in 12,450 CL days, with an overall rate of 3.6 CLABSIs per 1000 CL days. This showed a statistically significantly lower rate in the bundle period (p = 0.0126). In the prebundle period, the mean time to develop CLABSI was 15 days, whereas during the bundle period, the mean time to develop CLABSI was 27.9 days, a significantly longer time to onset (p = 0.001). While the percentage of other microorganisms was not statistically different between the prebundle and bundle periods (p > 0.05), the percentage of C. parapsilosis was significantly higher in the prebundle period (p = 0.001).   Conclusion: The results of this study imply that the use of central line bundles not only reduces the incidence of CLABSI but also delays the time to which CLABSI patients acquire an infection. In addition, as a direct consequence of the CLB, the number of CLABSIs caused by gram-positive cocci did not increase, while the proportion of CLABSIs caused by C. parapsilosis decreased. What is Known: • The most significant negative consequence of central venous access devices is catheter-associated bloodstream infections. • "Care bundles" for CLABSI prevention have been reported to reduce the CLABSI rate. What is New: • Consider what would happen if the "Care bundle" failed to prevent CLABSI. • The findings of this study imply that using central line bundles not only reduces the risk of CLABSI but also extends the time it takes for patients to develop CLABSI. While the number of CLABSIs caused by gram-positive cocci did not increase as a direct result of CLB, the rate of CLABSIs caused by C. parapsilosis, which has recently become a major problem, has decreased.

ESPEN practical guideline: Home parenteral nutrition

This guideline will inform physicians, nurses, dieticians, pharmacists, caregivers and other home parenteral nutrition (HPN) providers, as well as healthcare administrators and policy makers, about appropriate and safe HPN provision. This guideline will also inform patients requiring HPN. The guideline is based on previous published guidelines and provides an update of current evidence and expert opinion; it consists of 71 recommendations that address the indications for HPN, central venous access device (CVAD) and infusion pump, infusion catheter and CVAD site care, nutritional admixtures, program monitoring and management. Meta-analyses, systematic reviews and single clinical trials based on clinical questions were searched according to the PICO format. The evidence was evaluated and used to develop clinical recommendations implementing Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network methodology. The guideline was commissioned and financially supported by ESPEN and members of the guideline group were selected by ESPEN.

Determination of microbial contamination on the outer surface of needleless connectors before and after disinfection

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to determine bacterial contamination of needleless connectors before and after disinfection to assess the risk for the point of catheter-related bloodstream infections.

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY/DESIGN

Experimental study design.

SETTING

The research was carried out on patients with a central venous catheter hospitalized in the intensive care unit.

MAIN OUTCOMES MEASURES

Bacterial contamination of needleless connectors integrated into central venous catheters was assessed before and after disinfection. Antimicrobial susceptibilities of colonized isolates were investigated. In addition, the compatibility of the isolates with the bacteriological cultures of the patients was determined over a one-month period.

RESULTS

Bacterial contamination varied between 5×10³ and 1×10⁵ colony forming unit was detected before disinfection in 91.7% of needleless connectors. Most common bacteria were coagulase-negative staphylococci; others were Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, and Corynebacterium species. While most isolates were resistant to penicillin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, cefoxitin, and linezolid, each was susceptible to vancomycin or teicoplanin. Bacterial survival was not detected on needleless connectors after disinfection. There was no compatibility between the one-month bacteriological culture results of the patients and the bacteria isolated from the needleless connectors.

CONCLUSION

Bacterial contamination was detected on the needleless connectors before disinfection, although they were not rich in bacterial diversity. There was no bacterial growth after disinfection with an alcohol-impregnated swab.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CLINICAL PRACTICE

The majority of needleless connectors had bacterial contamination before disinfection. Needleless connectors should be disinfected for 30 seconds before use, particularly in immunocompromised patients. However, the use of needleless connectors with antiseptic barrier caps may be a more practical and effective solution instead.

Needle-free connectors to prevent central venous catheter occlusion at a tertiary cardiac center: A prospective before and after intervention study

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effectiveness of needle-free connectors to maintain Central Venous Catheter-CVC patency.

BACKGROUND

Loss of patency is a common complication associated with CVC. For patients, this can be stressful and painful, and can result in a delay in infusion therapy. Pressure-activated anti-reflux needle-free connectors are one of the most modern devices; however, no studies have compared this connector with the open-system three-way stopcock in terms of the incidence of CVC occlusion.

METHODS

This study is a prospective before and after intervention study. From March to August 2018, an observation phase was conducted with the three-way stopcock as the standard central venous catheter hub and closure system (phase 1). After implementation of needle-free connectors (phase 2), post-intervention observations were made from September 2019 to January 2020 (phase 3).

RESULTS

Of 199 CVCs analyzed, 41.2% (40/97) occluded in at least one lumen in the first phase, and 13.7% (14/102) occluded after introducing the technological device, absolute risk reduction 27.5% (95% confidence interval 15.6%-39.4%). The lumens supported by needle-free connectors showed a higher probability of maintaining patency compared with three-way stopcocks. No differences were observed in the rate of infection.

CONCLUSIONS

Pressure-activated anti-reflux needle-free connectors are effective and safe devices suitable for the management of vascular access in cardiac patient care. Staff training, even on apparently simple devices, is essential to avoid the risk of infection.

Challenges in reducing the risk of infection when accessing vascular catheters

Injection safety is essential to reduce the risk of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) when accessing vascular catheters. This general review evaluates the contamination of vascular catheter access ports and associated HAIs in acute care settings, focusing on open lumen stopcocks (OLSs) and disinfectable needleless closed connectors (DNCCs). PubMed was searched from January 2000 to February 2021. OLS intraluminal surfaces are frequently contaminated during patient care, increasing the risk of HAIs, and neither an isopropyl alcohol (IPA) pad nor a port-scrub device can reduce contamination effectively. In contrast, DNCCs can be disinfected, with most studies indicating less intraluminal contamination than OLSs and some studies showing decreased HAIs. While the optimal DNCC design to reduce HAIs needs to be determined, DNCCs alone or stopcocks with a DNCC bonded to the injection port should replace routine use of OLSs, with OLSs restricted to use in sterile fields. Compliance with disinfection is essential immediately before use of a DNCC as use of a non-disinfected DNCC can have equivalent or greater risk of HAIs compared with use of an OLS. The recommendations for access port disinfection in selected national and international guidelines vary. When comparing in-vitro studies, clinical studies and published guidelines, consensus is lacking; therefore, additional studies are needed, including large randomized controlled trials. IPA caps disinfect DNCCs passively, eliminate scrubbing and provide a contamination barrier; however, their use in neonates has been questioned. Further study is needed to determine whether IPA caps are more efficacious than scrubbing with disinfectant to decrease HAIs related to use of central venous, peripheral venous and arterial catheters.

How to perform appropriate flushing after lipid emulsion administration using totally implantable venous access devices in long-term total parenteral nutrition and home parenteral nutrition

BACKGROUND & AIMS

There has been no clear evidence regarding the appropriate method of flushing catheters and totally implantable venous access devices (TIVADs) after lipid emulsion (LE) administration. Therefore, the aim of the study was to identify appropriate methods of flushing to minimize residual LE when using TIVADs to ensure the safety of long-term total parenteral nutrition (TPN) and home parenteral nutrition (HPN).

METHODS

A soybean oil LE containing indocyanine green (ICG) was administered from the injection site of the primary infusion set for flowing TPN, and LE dynamics were evaluated by a fluorescence imaging system. TIVADs were connected to the end of the infusion sets. After LE administration, the tubes and chambers were flushed from the injection site using saline at various speeds (20, 40, 60 mL/min), with and without pulsation. The washout effect of TPN solution after LE administration followed by flushing was examined, as was the washout effect of size differences in the infusion sets.

RESULTS

When the LE was flushed with 20 mL of saline immediately after administering the LE using a standard infusion set (inner diameter 2.5 mm), the LE still remained in the tubes and chambers under any flushing condition. Flushing the LE from the injection site with 10 mL of saline and then flowing >240 mL of TPN solution were effective for minimizing residual LE inside the tubes and chambers. When using an infusion set with a small inner diameter (1.0 mm), the LE inside the tubes and chambers was almost discharged with ≥20 mL of saline immediately after administering the LE. In all settings, flushing with/without pulsation did not affect LE washout efficacy.

CONCLUSIONS

Flushing immediately with saline ≥10 mL and then flowing >240 mL of primary PN solution after soybean oil LE administration using the standard infusion set or flushing with 20 mL saline immediately after administering the soybean oil LE using the infusion set with a small inner diameter are effective for minimizing the residual LE in the catheter and TIVAD, ensuring the safety of long-term TPN and HPN.

ESPEN guideline on home parenteral nutrition

This guideline will inform physicians, nurses, dieticians, pharmacists, caregivers and other home parenteral nutrition (HPN) providers, as well as healthcare administrators and policy makers, about appropriate and safe HPN provision. This guideline will also inform patients requiring HPN. The guideline is based on previous published guidelines and provides an update of current evidence and expert opinion; it consists of 71 recommendations that address the indications for HPN, central venous access device (CVAD) and infusion pump, infusion line and CVAD site care, nutritional admixtures, program monitoring and management. Meta-analyses, systematic reviews and single clinical trials based on clinical questions were searched according to the PICO format. The evidence was evaluated and used to develop clinical recommendations implementing Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network methodology. The guideline was commissioned and financially supported by ESPEN and members of the guideline group were selected by ESPEN.

Impact of needle-free connectors compared with 3-way stopcocks on catheter-related bloodstream infection rates: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Needle-free connectors (NFCs) were introduced to eliminate the use of needles in intravascular catheters, and their newest generations were designed to improve patient safety and reduce catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) risks. The aim of this meta-analysis was to compare NFCs with 3-way stopcocks (3WSCs) and their effects on CRBSI rates.

METHODS

A meta-analysis was conducted using a research protocol consistent with the PRISMA statement for reporting meta-analyses. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and MEDLINE were searched for relevant randomized studies published from January 2000 to September 2018.

RESULTS

We identified and selected for the meta-analysis 8 studies comparing CRBSI rates (according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Healthcare Safety Network definition) associated with NFCs utilizing negative-displacement, neutral-displacement, or positive-displacement devices with rates for 3WSCs. Relative risk was 0.53 with a 95% CI of 0.28 to 1.00, and the relative difference was -0.018 with a 95% CI of -0.039 to 0.004.

CONCLUSIONS

CRBSI risk was statistically higher for 3WSCs compared to NFCs.

Connectors as a risk factor for blood-associated infections (3-way stopcock and needleless connector): A randomized-experimental study

BACKGROUND

Microorganisms causing catheter-related bloodstream infections colonize to intravenous catheters (IVC)-particularly to connectors mounted to catheters. The aim of this study was to examine the colonization in 3-way stopcock (TWS) connectors and needleless connectors (NCs) that integrated into central, port, and peripheral venous catheters.

METHODS

This random, experimental study consisted of 180 connectors that were inserted into the IVCs of patients in general surgery, reanimation intensive care, and daily chemotherapy units. Cultures of the connectors were obtained at least 48 hours after connecting to IVCs.

RESULTS

This study showed that gram-negative, gram-positive, and other pathogens reproduced, although their colonization level was not high enough to develop an infection. When the results of colonization for patients using TWS and NC were compared, the peripheral venous catheters (using a TWS) resulted in a significantly higher increase in reproduction than in patients using NC (P ≤ .01) and no significant difference in the level of colonization in other types of connectors or catheters (P ˃ .05).

CONCLUSIONS

The study's results indicated no significant difference between NC and TWSs in terms of reproduction. It should also be noted that connectors integrated into IVC pose a risk in the development of catheter-related bloodstream infections.

Clinical impact of needle-free connector design: A systematic review of literature

The objective of this systematic review is to analyze types of needle-free connectors and open systems and their effects on central line–associated bloodstream infection rates and other adverse outcomes through a research protocol consistent with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews’ recommendations. MEDLINE and Cochrane databases of systematic reviews were searched for relevant comparative studies published from January 2000 to September 2017. Eighteen studies compared central line–associated bloodstream infection (according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention/National Healthcare Safety Network definition), internal microbial contamination, occlusions, phlebitis, and other outcomes associated with needle-free connectors with a positive displacement device, negative displacement device, neutral displacement device, or three-way stopcock. Ten studies reported central line–associated bloodstream infection rates, which were lower with positive displacement devices versus negative displacement devices/neutral displacement devices (one study) and with negative displacement devices versus three-way stopcocks (three studies), but varied with different positive displacement device and negative displacement device/neutral displacement device designs (four studies). Seven studies reported internal microbial contamination rates, which were higher with three-way stopcocks versus negative displacement devices (two studies) and positive displacement devices (two studies), lower when positive displacement devices were used versus neutral displacement devices (one study), and varied with different types of negative displacement device (one study). Central line–associated bloodstream infection rates and most other outcomes analyzed were statistically significantly higher with three-way stopcocks (open devices) versus positive displacement device, negative displacement devices, and neutral displacement devices, but varied among closed device designs.

Practice Guidelines for Central Venous Access 2020

These practice guidelines update the Practice Guidelines for Central Venous Access: A Report by the American Society of Anesthesiologists Task Force on Central Venous Access, adopted by the American Society of Anesthesiologists in 2011 and published in 2012. These updated guidelines are intended for use by anesthesiologists and individuals under the supervision of an anesthesiologist and may also serve as a resource for other physicians, nurses, or healthcare providers who manage patients with central venous catheters.

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.

Maintenance antisepsis in reducing the rate of late-onset central venous catheter-related bloodstream infection: A comparison of 0.05% and 1% chlorhexidine

BACKGROUND

Bundled measures have been recommended to reduce the risk of central venous catheter (CVC)-related bloodstream infection. However, the importance of each procedure involved in CVC insertion/management for preventing catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) has not been thoroughly assessed. We aimed to analyze the effectiveness of maintenance antisepsis at the CVC insertion site in reducing the CRBSI risk through comparing the use of 0.05% chlorhexidine to 1% chlorhexidine.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In the South Miyagi Medical Center, Japan, 372 patients with a CVC who had undergone antisepsis maintenance using 0.05% chlorhexidine swabs 12 months prior to implementing 1% chlorhexidine swabs, and 344 patients at 12 months post-implementation of 1% chlorhexidine swabs, were followed prospectively for the development of CRBSI and signs of infection, and their data compared.

RESULTS

Post-implementation of the 1% chlorhexidine swabs, the CRBSI rate decreased from 3.64/1000 catheter-days to 1.77/1000 catheter-days. The risk of CRBSI decreased to 0.465 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.216-1.001). Furthermore, the risk of CRBSI ≥20 days after CVC insertion decreased to 0.200 (95% CI: 0.049-0.867); however, we found no difference between 0.05% and 1% chlorhexidine use within 19 days of CVC insertion. The increased number of patients with insertion site tenderness after implementing 1% chlorhexidine indicated a possible adverse effect of chlorhexidine.

CONCLUSION

Maintenance antisepsis with 1% chlorhexidine decreased the risk of developing CRBSI ≥20 days after CVC insertion, indicating the effectiveness of antisepsis with 1% chlorhexidine. Our data highlight the importance of maintenance antisepsis in reducing the rate of late-phase CRBSI.

The colonization rate of needleless connector and the impact of disinfection for 15 s on colonization: A prospective pre- and post-intervention study

Purpose:

The optimal scrubbing time for the disinfection of the surface of needleless connectors has not been determined. The evidence for successful needleless connector decontamination with 70% isopropyl alcohol ranges from 5 to 60 s. The aim of this prospective study was to identify colonization on the external surface of needleless connectors on central venous catheters and measure the efficiency of 15 s of scrubbing with 70% alcohol.

Method:

A total of 31 patients were included. Samples were collected adhering to aseptic no-touch technique policies. Two samples were collected from the injectable surface of the needleless connector with sterile sodium chloride 0.9% moistened and a dry swab from the same site. Then the surface was scrubbed with alcohol 70% for 15 s for disinfection and second couples of samples for the cultures were taken after disinfection.

Findings:

A total of 420 swabs were obtained. The number of colonization (equal or higher than 15 CFU/plate) was present on 21 of the needleless connectors (20.0%). Coagulase-negative staphylococci was responsible for all the colonization. After disinfection for 15 s, no isolation exceeding 1 CFU/plate was present.

Conclusion:

Scrubbing for 15 s with 70% alcohol was found to be successful at elimination of colonization of the surface of needleless connector even in high microorganism counts.

Variation in infection prevention practices for peripherally inserted central venous catheters: A survey of neonatal units in England and Wales

Background

There is uncertainty about the variation in infection prevention practices for central venous catheters (CVC) in neonatal units (NNUs) and how practices relate to national guidance.

Aim

To evaluate evidence supporting infection prevention practices for CVCs recommended in national guidelines and to compare with reported practices for peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC), a type of CVC widely used in NNUs.

Design

We searched national guidelines for neonates and children to identify infection prevention practices for CVCs and conducted an overview of studies to determine the quality of evidence underpinning recommendations. We surveyed 134 NNUs in England and Wales to ascertain reported practice.

Results

We found low quality evidence supporting CVC care bundles and use of 2% alcoholic chlorhexidine to decontaminate catheter ports and skin before insertion. Moderate quality evidence supported recommendations against routinely replacing CVCs and against chlorhexidine-impregnated dressings. 90% (44/49) of NICUs and 40% (34/85) of LNUs responded. 66% (48/73) of NNUs reported using CVC care bundles for insertion; 62% (45/73) used bundles for maintenance. 63% (32/51) of those using bundles reported monitoring adherence. 85% (61/72) of NNUs did not routinely replace PICCs and 89% (63/71) did not use chlorhexidine-impregnated dressings. Antiseptic use varied with alcoholic 2% chlorhexidine used for skin preparation in 33% (23/71) of NNUs and for catheter ports in 52% (37/71).

Conclusions

Lack of consistency across NNUs in antiseptic use and low rates of reported CVC care bundle use may reflect the low quality of evidence of the effectiveness and safety of these interventions in NNUs. Clinical trials are needed to quantify benefits and harms of infection prevention practices in NNUs.

ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Radiologic Management of Central Venous Access

Obtaining central venous access is one of the most commonly performed procedures in hospital settings. Multiple devices such as peripherally inserted central venous catheters, tunneled central venous catheters (eg, Hohn catheter, Hickman catheter, C. R. Bard, Inc, Salt Lake City UT), and implantable ports are available for this purpose. The device selected for central venous access depends on the clinical indication, duration of the treatment, and associated comorbidities. It is important for health care providers to familiarize themselves with the types of central venous catheters available, including information about their indications, contraindications, and potential complications, especially the management of catheters in the setting of catheter-related bloodstream infections. The American College of Radiology Appropriateness Criteria are evidence-based guidelines for specific clinical conditions that are reviewed annually by a multidisciplinary expert panel. The guideline development and revision include an extensive analysis of current medical literature from peer reviewed journals and the application of well-established methodologies (RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation or GRADE) to rate the appropriateness of imaging and treatment procedures for specific clinical scenarios. In those instances where evidence is lacking or equivocal, expert opinion may supplement the available evidence to recommend imaging or treatment.

A New Central venous Catheter Cap: Decreased Microbial Growth and Risk for Catheter-Related Bloodstream Infection

Objective

Catheter-related blood stream infection (CRBI) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality, and is a source of significant healthcare expenditures in patients that require central venous catheters for intravenous nutrition, chemotherapy, and other products. The source of many catheter-related infections is contamination of the catheter hub. Herein an antimicrobial catheter cap, the AB Cap is described.

Methods

The AB Cap device is a catheter cleaning device designed to keep needleless luer valves clean by encapsulating them in a cleaning solution. This device was evaluated using an in vitro model of hub contamination with Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis (S. epidermidis), Klebsiella pneumonia (K. pneumonia), Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli and Candida albicans (C. albicans). Following hub contamination on days 1, 3, 5 and 7, saline was infused through the AB Cap and effluent collected from the efferent end. The effluent fluid was cultured for the index organisms, and allowed to incubate in culture for up to 7 days. Negative control caps were not contaminated and positive controls lacked cleaning solution and were contaminated.

Results

Microbial growth developed for all index organisms, and generally within 1 day of culture growth following the first day of contamination (day 1) in effluent from all positive controls, while no growth occurred in effluent from negative controls. No growth of any organism occurred in any of the test items after the first day of contamination. Growth of three organisms was detected in two of the three test AB Caps following contamination day 3, after 1–4 days of incubation. All organisms could be cultured in the effluent from two of the three test items at contamination day 5, generally by the second day of incubation. One test item remained free of growth for the entire test period except for one organism. By day 7, this particular test item grew an additional organism and the testing was concluded. All positive growth test items remained positive on subsequent inoculations during culture of newly obtained effluent with the exception of test item A, from which effluent following inoculation on day 3 showed growth of S. epidermidis and K. pneumonia, but no growth for these organisms from effluent obtained on inoculation day 5. In addition, effluent from test item C showed growth of C. albicans from inoculation day 5, but no growth from effluent obtained on inoculation day 7. The growth of S. epidermidis from effluent of test item A from the day 3 inoculation, and C. albicans from effluent of test items B and C did not occur until day 4 of incubation, suggesting a very small amount of contamination.

Conclusion

An antimicrobial catheter cap is not a complete substitute for a proper catheter cleaning technique and other anti-infection precautions. However, we describe a unique catheter cap that significantly decreased the likelihood of a catheter-related infection from a non-cleaned cap in an in vitro model.

Reduction of Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infection Rates in Patients in the Adult Intensive Care Unit

Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) prolong hospital stays and increase cost, morbidity, and mortality. An intensive care unit (ICU) in a suburban Baltimore hospital reduced CLABSI rates to zero in 2012, by revising central venous access device policies and initiatives, which included a bloodstream infection alert system, bundle compliance monitoring and routine evaluation, and use of positive displacement needleless connectors. The hospital's ICU infection rate decreased from 2.9/1000 central-line days in 2010 to 0.8 by 2011, 0 by 2012, and 0.91 in 2013. The utilization ratio was 0.64 in 2011, 0.60 in 2012, and 0.58 in 2013. CLABSI prevention involves all disciplines and requires staff accountability for patient safety.

Improving outcomes of short peripheral vascular access in oncology and chemotherapy administration

A short peripheral intravenous catheter or cannula (PIVC) is frequently used to deliver chemotherapy in oncology practice. Although safe and easy to insert, PIVCs do fail, leading to personal discomfort for patients and adding substantially to treatment costs. As the procedure of peripheral catheterization is invasive, there is a need for greater consistency in the choice, insertion and management of short PIVCs, particularly in the oncology setting where there is a growing trend for patients to receive many different courses of IV treatment over a number of years, sometimes with only short remissions. This article reviews best practice with respect to PIVCs in cancer patients and considers the necessity for bundling these actions. Two care bundles, addressing both insertion and ongoing care and maintenance, are proposed. These have the potential to improve outcomes with the use of short PIVCs for vascular access in oncology practice.

Skin antisepsis for reducing central venous catheter-related infections

BACKGROUND

The central venous catheter (CVC) is a device used for many functions, including monitoring haemodynamic indicators and administering intravenous medications, fluids, blood products and parenteral nutrition. However, as a foreign object, it is susceptible to colonisation by micro-organisms, which may lead to catheter-related blood stream infection (BSI) and in turn, increased mortality, morbidities and health care costs.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of skin antisepsis as part of CVC care for reducing catheter-related BSIs, catheter colonisation, and patient mortality and morbidities.

SEARCH METHODS

In May 2016 we searched: The Cochrane Wounds Specialised Register; The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (The Cochrane Library); Ovid MEDLINE (including In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations and Epub Ahead of Print); Ovid EMBASE and EBSCO CINAHL Plus. We also searched clinical trial registries for ongoing and unpublished studies. There were no restrictions with respect to language, date of publication or study setting.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that assessed any type of skin antiseptic agent used either alone or in combination, compared with one or more other skin antiseptic agent(s), placebo or no skin antisepsis in patients with a CVC in place.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently assessed the studies for their eligibility, extracted data and assessed risk of bias. We expressed our results in terms of risk ratio (RR), absolute risk reduction (ARR) and number need to treat for an additional beneficial outcome (NNTB) for dichotomous data, and mean difference (MD) for continuous data, with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

MAIN RESULTS

Thirteen studies were eligible for inclusion, but only 12 studies contributed data, with a total of 3446 CVCs assessed. The total number of participants enrolled was unclear as some studies did not provide such information. The participants were mainly adults admitted to intensive care units, haematology oncology units or general wards. Most studies assessed skin antisepsis prior to insertion and regularly thereafter during the in-dwelling period of the CVC, ranging from every 24 h to every 72 h. The methodological quality of the included studies was mixed due to wide variation in their risk of bias. Most trials did not adequately blind the participants or personnel, and four of the 12 studies had a high risk of bias for incomplete outcome data.Three studies compared different antisepsis regimens with no antisepsis. There was no clear evidence of a difference in all outcomes examined, including catheter-related BSI, septicaemia, catheter colonisation and number of patients who required systemic antibiotics for any of the three comparisons involving three different antisepsis regimens (aqueous povidone-iodine, aqueous chlorhexidine and alcohol compared with no skin antisepsis). However, there were great uncertainties in all estimates due to underpowered analyses and the overall very low quality of evidence presented.There were multiple head-to-head comparisons between different skin antiseptic agents, with different combinations of active substance and base solutions. The most frequent comparison was chlorhexidine solution versus povidone-iodine solution (any base). There was very low quality evidence (downgraded for risk of bias and imprecision) that chlorhexidine may reduce catheter-related BSI compared with povidone-iodine (RR of 0.64, 95% CI 0.41 to 0.99; ARR 2.30%, 95% CI 0.06 to 3.70%). This evidence came from four studies involving 1436 catheters. None of the individual subgroup comparisons of aqueous chlorhexidine versus aqueous povidone-iodine, alcoholic chlorhexidine versus aqueous povidone-iodine and alcoholic chlorhexidine versus alcoholic povidone-iodine showed clear differences for catheter-related BSI or mortality (and were generally underpowered). Mortality was only reported in a single study.There was very low quality evidence that skin antisepsis with chlorhexidine may also reduce catheter colonisation relative to povidone-iodine (RR of 0.68, 95% CI 0.56 to 0.84; ARR 8%, 95% CI 3% to 12%; ; five studies, 1533 catheters, downgraded for risk of bias, indirectness and inconsistency).Evaluations of other skin antiseptic agents were generally in single, small studies, many of which did not report the primary outcome of catheter-related BSI. Trials also poorly reported other outcomes, such as skin infections and adverse events.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

It is not clear whether cleaning the skin around CVC insertion sites with antiseptic reduces catheter related blood stream infection compared with no skin cleansing. Skin cleansing with chlorhexidine solution may reduce rates of CRBSI and catheter colonisation compared with cleaning with povidone iodine. These results are based on very low quality evidence, which means the true effects may be very different. Moreover these results may be influenced by the nature of the antiseptic solution (i.e. aqueous or alcohol-based). Further RCTs are needed to assess the effectiveness and safety of different skin antisepsis regimens in CVC care; these should measure and report critical clinical outcomes such as sepsis, catheter-related BSI and mortality.

Strategies to Prevent Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections in Acute Care Hospitals: 2014 Update

Previously published guidelines are available that provide comprehensive recommendations for detecting and preventing healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). The intent of this document is to highlight practical recommendations in a concise format designed to assist acute care hospitals in implementing and prioritizing their central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) prevention efforts. This document updates “Strategies to Prevent Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections in Acute Care Hospitals,” published in 2008. This expert guidance document is sponsored by the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA) and is the product of a collaborative effort led by SHEA, the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA), the American Hospital Association (AHA), the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC), and The Joint Commission, with major contributions from representatives of a number of organizations and societies with content expertise. The list of endorsing and supporting organizations is presented in the introduction to the 2014 updates.

Closed blood conservation device for reducing catheter-related infections in children after cardiac surgery

BACKGROUND

Arterial catheters are potential sources of nosocomial infection.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate use of a closed blood conservation device in preventing catheter-related bloodstream infections in children after cardiac surgery.

METHODS

Children with an indwelling arterial catheter after cardiac surgery were randomly assigned to 2 groups: a control group with a conventional 3-way stopcock in the catheter system and an interventional group with the conservation device in the catheter system. Catheter tips, catheter intraluminal fluid, and blood samples obtained from the catheter and peripherally were cultured for microbiological analysis. RESULTS Intraluminal fluid contamination was significantly lower (P = .03) in the interventional group (3 of 147 catheters) than in the control group (10 of 137 catheters). The 2 groups did not differ significantly in the rate of tip colonization (9 of 147 vs 12 of 137; P = .40) or in the number of catheter-related bloodstream infections (0 of 147 vs 2 of 137; P = .21).

CONCLUSION

Use of a closed blood conservation device could decrease the incidence of catheter-related contamination of intraluminal fluid.

Strategies to Prevent Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections in Acute Care Hospitals: 2014 Update

Previously published guidelines are available that provide comprehensive recommendations for detecting and preventing healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). The intent of this document is to highlight practical recommendations in a concise format designed to assist acute care hospitals in implementing and prioritizing their central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) prevention efforts. This document updates “Strategies to Prevent Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections in Acute Care Hospitals,” published in 2008. This expert guidance document is sponsored by the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA) and is the product of a collaborative effort led by SHEA, the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA), the American Hospital Association (AHA), the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC), and The Joint Commission, with major contributions from representatives of a number of organizations and societies with content expertise. The list of endorsing and supporting organizations is presented in the introduction to the 2014 updates.

Disinfection of Needleless Connector Hubs: Clinical Evidence Systematic Review

Background. Needleless connectors (NC) are used on virtually all intravascular devices, providing an easy access point for infusion connection. Colonization of NC is considered the cause of 50% of postinsertion catheter-related infections. Breaks in aseptic technique, from failure to disinfect, result in contamination and subsequent biofilm formation within NC and catheters increasing the potential for infection of central and peripheral catheters. Methods. This systematic review evaluated 140 studies and 34 abstracts on NC disinfection practices, the impact of hub contamination on infection, and measures of education and compliance. Results. The greatest risk for contamination of the catheter after insertion is the NC with 33-45% contaminated, and compliance with disinfection as low as 10%. The optimal technique or disinfection time has not been identified, although scrubbing with 70% alcohol for 5-60 seconds is recommended. Studies have reported statistically significant results in infection reduction when passive alcohol disinfection caps are used (48-86% reduction). Clinical Implications. It is critical for healthcare facilities and clinicians to take responsibility for compliance with basic principles of asepsis compliance, to involve frontline staff in strategies, to facilitate education that promotes understanding of the consequences of failure, and to comply with the standard of care for hub disinfection.

The Past, Present, and Future of Healthcare-Associated Infection Prevention in Pediatrics: Catheter-Associated Bloodstream Infections

Central line–associated bloodstream infections cause morbidity and mortality in children. We explore the evidence for prevention of central line–associated bloodstream infections in children, assess current practices, and propose research topics to improve prevention strategies.

Adequate Disinfection of a Split-Septum Needleless Intravascular Connector with a 5-Second Alcohol Scrub

Objective.

Define optimum vascular catheter connector valve disinfection practices under laboratory and clinical conditions.

Design.

Prospective observational clinical survey and laboratory assessment of disinfection procedures.

Setting.

All adult inpatients at an academic healthcare center.

Methods.

In the clinical setting, contamination of needleless connectors was assessed in 6 weekly prevalence surveys in which the connector valves from central venous catheters (CVCs) in situ were cultured by pressing the connector diaphragm to an agar plate. Before culture, valves were disinfected by scrubbing the diaphragm with a 70% isopropyl alcohol pledget for 0, 5, 10, 15, or 30 seconds. In the laboratory, the diaphragms on 150 unused sterile connector valves were inoculated with 103, 105, or 108colony-forming units ofStaphylococcus epidermidisand allowed to dry. After disinfection of the diaphragms by scrubbing with a 70% isopropyl alcohol pledget for 0, 5, 10, 15, or 30 seconds, the valves were sampled by pressing the diaphragm to an agar plate.

Results.

In the clinical setting, 363 connector valves from patients with CVCs were sampled, and 66.7% of nondisinfected valves revealed bacterial contamination. After 5-second disinfection with an alcohol pledget, only 1 (1.4%) of 71 yielded microbial growth (P< .005). In the laboratory, at the 103and 105inoculum, all connector valves yielded sterile cultures when scrubbed for 5 or more seconds (P< .001). At the 108inoculum, 2 (20%) of 10 connector valves yielded minimal growth ofS. epidermidis.

Conclusions.

A 5-second scrub with a 70% isopropyl alcohol pledget yields adequate disinfection of a split-septum intravascular catheter connector valve under clinical and laboratory conditions.

Findings of the International Nosocomial Infection Control Consortium (INICC), Part III Effectiveness of a Multidimensional Infection Control Approach to Reduce Central Line—Associated Bloodstream Infections in the Neonatal Intensive Care Units of 4 Developing Countries

Objective.

To analyze the impact of the International Nosocomial Infection Control Consortium (INICC) multidimensional infection control approach to reduce central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) rates.

Setting.

Four neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) of INICC member hospitals from El Salvador, Mexico, Philippines, and Tunisia.

Patients.

A total of 2,241 patients hospitalized in 4 NICUs for 40,045 bed-days.

Methods.

We conducted a before-after prospective surveillance study. During Phase 1 we performed active surveillance, and during phase 2 the INICC multidimensional infection control approach was implemented, including the following practices: (1) central line care bundle, (2) education, (3) outcome surveillance, (4) process surveillance, (5) feedback of CLABSI rates, and (6) performance feedback of infection control practices. We compared CLABSI rates obtained during the 2 phases. We calculated crude stratified rates, and, using random-effects Poisson regression to allow for clustering by ICU, we calculated the incidence rate ratio (IRR) for each follow-up time period compared with the 3-month baseline.

Results.

During phase 1 we recorded 2,105 CL-days, and during phase 2 we recorded 17,117 CL-days. After implementation of the multidimensional approach, the CLABSI rate decreased by 55%, from 21.4 per 1,000 CL-days during phase 1 to 9.7 per 1,000 CL-days during phase 2 (rate ratio, 0.45 [95% confidence interval, 0.33–0.63]). The IRR was 0.53 during the 4–12-month period and 0.07 during the final period of the study (more than 45 months).

Conclusions.

Implementation of a multidimensional infection control approach was associated with a significant reduction in CLABSI rates in NICUs.

Findings of the International Nosocomial Infection Control Consortium (INICC), Part III Effectiveness of a Multidimensional Infection Control Approach to Reduce Central Line—Associated Bloodstream Infections in the Neonatal Intensive Care Units of 4 Developing Countries

Objective.

To analyze the impact of the International Nosocomial Infection Control Consortium (INICC) multidimensional infection control approach to reduce central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) rates.

Setting.

Four neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) of INICC member hospitals from El Salvador, Mexico, Philippines, and Tunisia.

Patients.

A total of 2,241 patients hospitalized in 4 NICUs for 40,045 bed-days.

Methods.

We conducted a before-after prospective surveillance study. During Phase 1 we performed active surveillance, and during phase 2 the INICC multidimensional infection control approach was implemented, including the following practices: (1) central line care bundle, (2) education, (3) outcome surveillance, (4) process surveillance, (5) feedback of CLABSI rates, and (6) performance feedback of infection control practices. We compared CLABSI rates obtained during the 2 phases. We calculated crude stratified rates, and, using random-effects Poisson regression to allow for clustering by ICU, we calculated the incidence rate ratio (IRR) for each follow-up time period compared with the 3-month baseline.

Results.

During phase 1 we recorded 2,105 CL-days, and during phase 2 we recorded 17,117 CL-days. After implementation of the multidimensional approach, the CLABSI rate decreased by 55%, from 21.4 per 1,000 CL-days during phase 1 to 9.7 per 1,000 CL-days during phase 2 (rate ratio, 0.45 [95% confidence interval, 0.33–0.63]). The IRR was 0.53 during the 4–12-month period and 0.07 during the final period of the study (more than 45 months).

Conclusions.

Implementation of a multidimensional infection control approach was associated with a significant reduction in CLABSI rates in NICUs.

Closed catheter access system implementation in reducing the bloodstream infection rate in low birth weight preterm infants

BACKGROUND

Bloodstream infection (BSI) is one of the significant causes of morbidity and mortality encountered in a neonatal intensive care unit, especially in developing countries. Despite the implementation of infection control practices, such as strict hand hygiene, the BSI rate in our hospital is still high. The use of a closed catheter access system to reduce BSI related to intravascular catheter has hitherto never been evaluated in our hospital.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effects of closed catheter access system implementation in reducing the BSI rate in preterm neonates with low birth weight.

METHODS

Randomized clinical trial was conducted on 60 low birth weight preterm infants hospitalized in the neonatal unit at Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia from June to September 2013. Randomized subjects either received a closed or non-closed catheter access system. Subjects were monitored for 2 weeks for the development of BSI based on clinical signs, abnormal infection parameters, and blood culture.

RESULTS

Closed catheter access system implementation gave a protective effect toward the occurrence of culture-proven BSI (relative risk 0.095, 95% CI 0.011-0.85, p = 0.026). Risk of culture-proven BSI in the control group was 10.545 (95% CI 1.227-90.662, p = 0.026). BSI occurred in 75% of neonates without risk factors of infection in the control group compared to none in the study group.

CONCLUSION

The use of a closed catheter access system reduced the BSI in low birth weight preterm infants. Choosing the right device design, proper disinfection of device, and appropriate frequency of connector change should be done simultaneously.

Infection control in the intensive care unit

It is critical for health care personnel to recognize and appreciate the detrimental impact of intensive care unit (ICU)-acquired infections. The economic, clinical, and social expenses to patients and hospitals are overwhelming. To limit the incidence of ICU-acquired infections, aggressive infection control measures must be implemented and enforced. Researchers and national committees have developed and continue to develop evidence-based guidelines to control ICU infections. A multifaceted approach, including infection prevention committees, antimicrobial stewardship programs, daily reassessments-intervention bundles, identifying and minimizing risk factors, and continuing staff education programs, is essential. Infection control in the ICU is an evolving area of critical care research.

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.

Clinical guidelines on central venous catheterisation. Swedish Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine

Safe and reliable venous access is mandatory in modern health care, but central venous catheters (CVCs) are associated with significant morbidity and mortality, This paper describes current Swedish guidelines for clinical management of CVCs The guidelines supply updated recommendations that may be useful in other countries as well. Literature retrieval in the Cochrane and Pubmed databases, of papers written in English or Swedish and pertaining to CVC management, was done by members of a task force of the Swedish Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine. Consensus meetings were held throughout the review process to allow all parts of the guidelines to be embraced by all contributors. All of the content was carefully scored according to criteria by the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine. We aimed at producing useful and reliable guidelines on bleeding diathesis, vascular approach, ultrasonic guidance, catheter tip positioning, prevention and management of associated trauma and infection, and specific training and follow-up. A structured patient history focused on bleeding should be taken prior to insertion of a CVCs. The right internal jugular vein should primarily be chosen for insertion of a wide-bore CVC. Catheter tip positioning in the right atrium or lower third of the superior caval vein should be verified for long-term use. Ultrasonic guidance should be used for catheterisation by the internal jugular or femoral veins and may also be used for insertion via the subclavian veins or the veins of the upper limb. The operator inserting a CVC should wear cap, mask, and sterile gown and gloves. For long-term intravenous access, tunnelled CVC or subcutaneous venous ports are preferred. Intravenous position of the catheter tip should be verified by clinical or radiological methods after insertion and before each use. Simulator-assisted training of CVC insertion should precede bedside training in patients. Units inserting and managing CVC should have quality assertion programmes for implementation and follow-up of routines, teaching, training and clinical outcome. Clinical guidelines on a wide range of relevant topics have been introduced, based on extensive literature retrieval, to facilitate effective and safe management of CVCs.

epic3: national evidence-based guidelines for preventing healthcare-associated infections in NHS hospitals in England

National evidence-based guidelines for preventing healthcare-associated infections (HCAI) in National Health Service (NHS) hospitals in England were originally commissioned by the Department of Health and developed during 1998-2000 by a nurse-led multi-professional team of researchers and specialist clinicians. Following extensive consultation, they were first published in January 2001(1) and updated in 2007.(2) A cardinal feature of evidence-based guidelines is that they are subject to timely review in order that new research evidence and technological advances can be identified, appraised and, if shown to be effective for the prevention of HCAI, incorporated into amended guidelines. Periodically updating the evidence base and guideline recommendations is essential in order to maintain their validity and authority. The Department of Health commissioned a review of new evidence and we have updated the evidence base for making infection prevention and control recommendations. A critical assessment of the updated evidence indicated that the epic2 guidelines published in 2007 remain robust, relevant and appropriate, but some guideline recommendations required adjustments to enhance clarity and a number of new recommendations were required. These have been clearly identified in the text. In addition, the synopses of evidence underpinning the guideline recommendations have been updated. These guidelines (epic3) provide comprehensive recommendations for preventing HCAI in hospital and other acute care settings based on the best currently available evidence. National evidence-based guidelines are broad principles of best practice that need to be integrated into local practice guidelines and audited to reduce variation in practice and maintain patient safety. Clinically effective infection prevention and control practice is an essential feature of patient protection. By incorporating these guidelines into routine daily clinical practice, patient safety can be enhanced and the risk of patients acquiring an infection during episodes of health care in NHS hospitals in England can be minimised.

Disinfection of needleless connectors with chlorhexidine-alcohol provides long-lasting residual disinfectant activity

The optimal disinfection method for needleless connectors (NCs) is unclear. We used an experimental model of microbial NC contamination to test different scrub times (swipe, 5, 15, 30 seconds) of chlorhexidine-alcohol versus alcohol and for residual disinfectant activity. Swipe with alcohol did not adequately disinfect NCs, particularly when contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus or Pseudomonas aeruginosa. With ≥5-second scrub, chlorhexidine-alcohol and alcohol performed similarly, but chlorhexidine-alcohol showed residual disinfectant activity for up to 24 hours.

An in vitro evaluation of disinfection protocols used for needleless connectors of central venous catheters

A repeatable and sensitive method to evaluate the effect of three antiseptics and two disinfection techniques on viable micro-organisms on luer-activated catheter needleless connectors (NCs) was developed. NCs were inoculated with Staphylococcus epidermidis or Klebsiella pneumoniae and disinfected with 3·15% chlorhexidine gluconate + 70% isopropanol (CGI), 70% isopropanol (IPA) or 10% PVP povidone-iodine (PI) antiseptic pads using: (i) scrubbing the NC septum and threaded external surfaces or (ii) wiping only the surface of the septum. Treatments were also evaluated against NCs pretreated with human serum and exposed for 18 h to Staph. epidermidis prior to testing. Viable cells were quantified by plate count. The method for inoculation and recovery of luminal micro-organisms was repeatable (SD, 0·31; n = 28). IPA disinfection provided an approximate 3 log10  CFU reduction; CGI and PI provided 3-4 log10 reductions. PI and CGI were more effective than IPA (P < 0·05), but differences between CGI and PI were not significant for either disinfection method. IPA, but not CGI and PI was also less effective (P < 0·05) against NCs inoculated with Kl. pneumoniae than Staph. epidermidis. Pretreatment with serum and prolonged Staph. epidermidis inoculation removed the advantage seen with CGI and PI; log10 reductions were 1·80, 1·73 and 2·50 for CGI, PI and IPA, respectively. PI or CGI may be more effective than IPA for NC disinfection but effectiveness may be reduced on NCs contaminated with blood or serum.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

sensitive and repeatable protocol was developed to evaluate antiseptics for disinfecting catheter needleless connectors (NCs). Povidone-iodine (PI) and chlorhexidine gluconate plus isopropanol (CGI) were more effective than isopropanol (IPA) for reducing Staphylococcus epidermidis contamination of NCs. The effectiveness of PI and CGI was reduced on NCs pre-exposed to human serum and prolonged bacterial inoculation. IPA was also less effective against NCs contaminated with Klebsiella pneumoniae.

Comparison of bacterial contamination of blood conservation system and stopcock system arterial sampling lines used in critically ill patients

BACKGROUND

Commonly placed to monitor blood pressure and to aspirate blood, arterial lines frequently cause complications. The blood conservation system (BCS) forms a closed infusion line and may be expected to reduce complications caused by intraluminal contamination. We compared microbial contamination resulting from use of BCS and 3-way stopcock catheterization.

METHODS

Patients who required arterial catheterization for at least 24 hours in our intensive care unit were randomly assigned to receive an arterial pressure monitoring system either with the BCS (test group) or with a 3-way stopcock (comparator group). To evaluate arterial line contamination, we qualitatively assessed the contamination of the catheter tip and intraluminal fluid.

RESULTS

We analyzed microbial contamination for a total of 216 arterial catheters: 109 in the test group and 107 in the comparator group. We found no difference in the incidence of catheter tip colonization in the 2 groups (test group, 8/109 vs comparator group, 11/107; P = .48). There was a statistically significant correlation between catheter tip colonization and duration of arterial line utilization. We found statistically significantly lower intraluminal fluid contamination in the test group (test group, 2/109 vs comparator group, 9/107; P = .03). There was no relationship between intraluminal fluid contamination and catheter tip contamination.

CONCLUSION

There was less microbial contamination of intraluminal fluid when BCS was used for arterial catheterization.

[Impact of the use of luer access devices on the quality of chronic hemodialysis]

Luer access valves are medical devices used to reduce infectious risks by securing repetitive handling in chronic hemodialysis using central catheter. Their impact on the effectiveness of a hemodialysis session still remains poorly studied. This in vivo study aims to evaluate its effectiveness. Tego(®) and Q-Syte(®) valves were used in alternation for each patient for four weeks (428 hemodialysis sessions). The two-luer access valves have led to a significant increase in the dysfunction of the hemodialysis sessions (51.8% compared to the usual care (39.3%) (P=0.012). The analysis by sub-category suggests a heterogeneous behavior of the two devices. The Q-Syte(®) valve showed significantly more dysfunction than the Tego(®) valve or the absence of valve. However, both valve systems tested can maintain the performance of the hemodialysis session as they don't change the dose of dialysis. This study highlights that an evaluation of each device must be performed prior to their use to assess the risk-benefit balance.

Impact of a multidimensional infection control strategy on central line-associated bloodstream infection rates in pediatric intensive care units of five developing countries: findings of the International Nosocomial Infection Control Consortium (INICC)

PURPOSE

To analyze the impact of the International Nosocomial Infection Control Consortium (INICC) multidimensional infection control strategy including a practice bundle to reduce the rates of central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLAB) in patients hospitalized in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs) of hospitals, which are members of the INICC, from nine cities of five developing countries: Colombia, India, Mexico, Philippines, and Turkey.

METHODS

CLAB rates were determined by means of a prospective surveillance study conducted on 1,986 patients hospitalized in nine PICUs, over a period of 12,774 bed-days. The study was divided into two phases. During Phase 1 (baseline period), active surveillance was performed without the implementation of the multi-faceted approach. CLAB rates obtained in Phase 1 were compared with CLAB rates obtained in Phase 2 (intervention period), after implementation of the INICC multidimensional infection control program.

RESULTS

During Phase 1, 1,029 central line (CL) days were recorded, and during Phase 2, after implementing the CL care bundle and interventions, we recorded 3,861 CL days. The CLAB rate was 10.7 per 1,000 CL days in Phase 1, and in Phase 2, the CLAB rate decreased to 5.2 per 1,000 CL days (relative risk [RR] 0.48, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.29-0.94, P = 0.02), showing a reduction of 52% in the CLAB rate.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that the implementation of a multidimensional infection control strategy was associated with a significant reduction in the CLAB rates in the PICUs of developing countries.

What is the predominant source of intravascular catheter infections?

The predominant source of intravascular catheter-related bloodstream infections has been a research and clinical question for more than 30 years. During that time, we've moved from the position of a single source predominating in all clinical scenarios to a more realistic appraisal that both skin at the insertion site and the catheter hub/connector (ie, an extraluminal and an intraluminal source of infection, respectively) are important and that maximally effective prevention programs must address both sources of infection.

A prospective clinical trial on prevention of catheter contamination using the hub protection cap for needleless injection device

BACKGROUND

Catheter hub contamination has been recognized as a source of catheter-related bloodstream infections. We have investigated the efficacy of a protection cap for a needleless injection device in preventing intraluminal catheter contamination, compared with a conventional 3-way stopcock.

METHODS

Adult patients requiring an intravascular catheter placement for at least 48 hours in an intensive care unit were randomly assigned to receive either the needleless injection device with protection cap (test group, n = 31, number of devices = 151) or with a conventional 3-way stopcock (comparator group, n = 33, number of devices = 179). To evaluate intraluminal contamination, we examined the bacteria isolated in the inline bacterial filters, which were attached downstream of the injection ports.

RESULTS

The incidence of bacterial contamination was significantly different between the groups (test group 2/151 (1.3%) vs comparator group 11/179 (6.2%), P = .04). There was no correlation between the microbial contamination rate and the in situ time of catheter or numbers of injections.

CONCLUSION

The protection cap for needleless injection devices decreased microbial transfer from the injection port to the intraluminal fluid pathway and lowered the risk of catheter-related bloodstream infections.