Guidelines for the prevention of intravascular catheter-related infections

Biomimetic catheter surface with dual action NO-releasing and generating properties for enhanced antimicrobial efficacy

Infection of indwelling catheters is a common healthcare problem, resulting in higher morbidity and mortality. The vulnerable population reliant on catheters post-surgery for food and fluid intake, blood transfusion, or urinary incontinence or retention is susceptible to hospital-acquired infection originating from the very catheter. Bacterial adhesion on catheters can take place during the insertion or over time when catheters are used for an extended period. Nitric oxide-releasing materials have shown promise in exhibiting antibacterial properties without the risk of antibacterial resistance which can be an issue with conventional antibiotics. In this study, 1, 5, and 10 wt % selenium (Se) and 10 wt % S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO)-incorporated catheters were prepared through a layer-by-layer dip-coating method to demonstrate NO-releasing and NO-generating capability of the catheters. The presence of Se on the catheter interface resulted in a 5 times higher NO flux in 10% Se-GSNO catheter through catalytic NO generation. A physiological level of NO release was observed from 10% Se-GSNO catheters for 5 d, along with an enhanced NO generation via the catalytic activity as Se was able to increase NO availability. The catheters were also found to be compatible and stable when subjected to sterilization and storage, even at room temperature. Additionally, the catheters showed a 97.02% and 93.24% reduction in the adhesion of clinically relevant strains of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, respectively. Cytocompatibility testing of the catheter with 3T3 mouse fibroblast cells supports the material's biocompatibility. These findings from the study establish the proposed catheter as a prospective antibacterial material that can be translated into a clinical setting to combat catheter-related infections.

Early removal of a permanent catheter during the acute management of the unstable pediatric hemato-oncology patient with suspected catheter-related bloodstream infection: a multi-disciplinary survey and review of the literature

There are no guidelines for the optimal manner and timing of permanent central catheter removal in the hemodynamically unstable pediatric hemato-oncology patient with suspected catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSI). Our goals were to examine current practices of permanent central catheter management and choice of removal in the hemodynamically unstable pediatric patient with suspected CRBSI among practitioners in diverse subspecialties. We performed a literature review on the subject, and conducted a multi-disciplinary survey included pediatric oncologists, pediatric emergency medicine physicians, and pediatric intensive care physicians whom we queried about their choice of permanent central catheter management and removal while treating the hemodynamically unstable pediatric patient with suspected CRBSI. Most of the 78 responders (n = 47, 59%) preferred to utilize the existing permanent central catheter for initial intravenous access rather than an alternative access. There were no significant differences between physician subspecialties (p = 0.29) or training levels (p = 0.14). Significantly more pediatric emergency medicine physicians preferred not to remove the permanent central catheter at any time point compared to the pediatric hemato-oncologists, who preferred to remove it at some point during the acute presentation (44.4% vs. 9.4%, respectively, p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

Our study findings reflect the need for uniform guidelines on permanent central catheter use and indications for its removal in the hemodynamically unstable pediatric patient. We suggest that permanent central catheter removal should be urgently considered in a deteriorating patient who failed to be stabilized with medical treatment.

WHAT IS KNOWN

• There are no guidelines for the optimal choice and timing of permanent central catheter removal in the hemodynamically unstable pediatric hemato-oncology patient with suspected catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI).

WHAT IS NEW

• We found variations in practices among pediatricians from diverse subspecialties and conflicting data in the literature. • There is a need for prospective studies to provide uniform guidelines for optimal management of suspected CRBSI in the hemodynamically unstable pediatric patient.

Endovascular Endocarditis Within the Superior Vena Cava of a Patient With a Tunneled Catheter for Hemodialysis

Tunneled hemodialysis catheters, such as permacaths, are frequently used for vascular access in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. The use of these catheters is associated with bloodstream infections, thromboses, and infective endocarditis. While valvular endocarditis is a more common entity, non-valvular endovascular endocarditis is less commonly reported in the literature. Fibrin sheaths which form along the catheter may act as niduses for infection, which can then seed the surrounding tissues. We present a case of infective endovascular endocarditis originating from an infected fibrin sheath in the superior vena cava of an ESRD patient. 

Catheter-associated bloodstream infection in patients with cancer: comparison of left- and right-sided insertions

BACKGROUND

There is limited research on the relationship between side of insertion of central venous catheter (CVAD) and bloodstream infection risk in patients with cancer.

AIM

To conduct an exploratory analysis of data from a randomized control trial (RCT) and data from a prospective cohort study to compare infection rates for right- and left-sided insertions.

METHODS

The study populations were patients aged >14 years with cancer from two tertiary hospitals in Brisbane, Australia. The primary endpoint was catheter-associated bloodstream infection (CABSI) adjudicated by blinded assessors. For the RCT, randomized intention-to-treat comparisons were conducted between left- and right-side allocated insertion for early (≤14 days) and late (>14 days) infection using Cox proportional hazards regression. The RCT data were also combined with cohort study data collected from one of the hospitals prior to the RCT and non-randomized comparisons conducted between left- and right-sided insertions.

FINDINGS

In 634 randomly allocated CVADs there were 141 CABSIs. Analysis showed strong evidence of right-side allocated insertions having an increased risk of early infection by 2.5 times (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.3-4.7); however, there was no evidence of increased risk for late infection (hazard ratio: 1.06; 95% CI: 0.71-1.59). Results from analysis of the RCT and cohort study data combined (2786 CVADs and 385 CABSIs) were similar.

CONCLUSION

There appears to be an increased risk of CABSI in patients with cancer for CVAD inserted into the right-side for around two weeks after line insertion. The mechanism underpinning the increased risk is unknown.

Pediatric Ambulatory Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections

BACKGROUND

Inpatient pediatric central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) cause morbidity and increased health care use. Minimal information exists for ambulatory CLABSIs despite ambulatory central line (CL) use in children. In this study, we identified ambulatory pediatric CLABSI incidence density, risk factors, and outcomes.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort with nested case-control study at 5 sites from 2010 through 2015. Electronic queries were used to identify potential cases on the basis of administrative and laboratory data. Chart review was used to confirm ambulatory CL use and adjudicated CLABSIs. Bivariate followed by multivariable backward logistic regression was used to identify ambulatory CLABSI risk factors.

RESULTS

Queries identified 4600 potentially at-risk children; 1658 (36%) had ambulatory CLs. In total, 247 (15%) patients experienced 466 ambulatory CLABSIs with an incidence density of 0.97 CLABSIs per 1000 CL days. Incidence density was highest among patients with tunneled externalized catheters versus peripherally inserted central catheters and totally implanted devices: 2.58 CLABSIs per 1000 CL days versus 1.46 vs 0.23, respectively (P < .001). In a multivariable model, clinic visit (odds ratio [OR] 2.8; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.4-5.5) and low albumin (OR 2.3; 95% CI: 1.2-4.3) were positively associated with CLABSI, and prophylactic antimicrobial agents for underlying conditions within the preceding 30 days (OR 0.22; 95% CI: 0.12-0.40) and operating room CL placement (OR 0.36; 95% CI: 0.16-0.79) were inversely associated with CLABSI. A total of 396 patients (85%) were hospitalized because of ambulatory CLABSI with an 8-day median length of stay (interquartile range 5-13).

CONCLUSIONS

Ambulatory pediatric CLABSI incidence density is appreciable and associated with health care use. CL type, patients with low albumin, prophylactic antimicrobial agents, and placement setting may be targets for reduction efforts.

Central venous catheter insertion and maintenance: Evidence-based clinical recommendations

OBJECTIVE

To share with clinicians supporting evidence of the safest and the most effective processes for central venous catheter insertion and maintenance as a strategy to prevent catheter-associated bloodstream infections.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted in the Medline via PubMed, Embase Central and Lilacs databases based on a set of clinical questions aimed at improving safety and effectiveness at key moments in the process of central venous catheter insertion and maintenance. The rapid literature review methodology was used. The studies identified were assessed from the quality point of view, using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) tools for qualitative and quantitative studies and for systematic reviews. Clinical practice guidelines were assessed using the AGREE II tool. The evidence is presented in the form of evidence-based clinical recommendations, which were graded in accordance with the JBI methodology.

RESULTS

Twelve clinical evidence summaries containing evidence related to the safe and effective use of central venous catheters are presented, including the following topics: central venous catheter insertion (CVC), peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC), preoperative assessment, the use of analgesia, field preparation, choice between CVC or PICC, CVC care and maintenance, prevention of complications, and general considerations pertaining to the use of central venous catheters in oncologic patients and in parenteral nutrition.

CONCLUSIONS

Recommendations on the safe and effective use of central venous access catheters in relation to CVC insertion and maintenance processes are presented in the evidence-based summary model. It is necessary to evaluate their implementation in health outcomes in the institutions where they are developed.

Effect of ultrasound-guided central venous catheter insertion on the incidence of catheter-related bloodstream infections and mechanical complications

Background

Central venous catheters (CVCs) are necessary for critically ill patients, including those with hematological malignancies. However, CVC insertion is associated with inevitable risks for various adverse events. Whether ultrasound guidance decreases the risk of catheter-related infection remains unclear.

Methods

We observed 395 consecutive CVC insertions between April 2009 and January 2013 in our hematological oncology unit. Because the routine use of ultrasound guidance upon CVC insertion was adopted based on our hospital guidelines implemented after 2012, the research period was divided into before December 2011 (early term) and after January 2012 (late term).

Results

Underlying diseases included hematological malignancies and immunological disorders. In total, 235 and 160 cases were included in the early- and late term groups, respectively. The median insertion duration was 26 days (range, 2–126 days) and 18 days (range, 2–104 days) in the early- and late term groups, respectively. The internal jugular, subclavian, and femoral veins were the sites of 22.6, 40.2, and 25.7% of the insertions in the early term group and 32.3, 16.9, and 25.4% of the insertions in the late term group, respectively. The frequency of catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) was 1.98/1000 catheter days and 2.17/1000 catheter days in the early- and late term groups, respectively. In the subgroup analysis, the detected causative pathogens of CRBSI did not differ between the two term groups; gram-positive cocci, gram-positive bacilli, and gram-negative bacilli were the causative pathogens in 68.9, 11.5, and 14.8% of the cases in the early term group and in 68.2, 11.4, and 18.2% of the cases in the late term group, respectively. In the multivariate analysis to determine the risk of CRBSI, only age was detected as an independent contributing factor; the indwelling catheter duration was detected as a marginal factor. A significant reduction in mechanical complications was associated with the use of ultrasound guidance.

Conclusions

Ultrasound-guided CVC insertion did not decrease the incidence of CRBSI. The only identified risk factor for CRBSI was age in our cohort. However, we found that the introduction of ultrasound-guided insertion triggered an overall change in safety management with or without the physicians’ intent.

Effect of early versus standard central line removal on growth of very low birthweight premature infants: a protocol for a non-inferiority randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Uncertainty exists regarding the optimal time for removal of central lines used to provide parenteral nutrition in preterm infants. The aim of this study is to determine whether earlier central line removal is non-inferior to its removal after reaching full enteral intake, in respect to growth outcome of preterm infants.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

Very low birthweight premature infants will be recruited. Eligible infants will be randomised in equal proportions between two groups. In the intervention group central lines will be removed when infants reach 100 mL/kg/day of enteral intake. In the control group central lines will be removed when infants reach 140 mL/kg/day of enteral intake (full enteral intake). The primary outcome measure will be the difference between the two groups in weight at 36 weeks' postmenstrual age. Non-inferiority will be declared if the mean weight of children in the intervention group will be no worse than the mean weight of children from the control group, by a margin of -210 g.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The Bioethics Committee of the Medical University of Warsaw approved the study protocol prior to recruitment. The findings of this trial will be submitted to a peer-reviewed journal (neonatology, paediatrics or nutrition). Abstracts will be submitted to relevant national and international conferences.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT03730883.

PROTOCOL VERSION

Version 3. 14.08.2019.

Early planned removal versus expectant management of peripherally inserted central catheters to prevent infection in newborn infants

BACKGROUND

Duration of use may be a modifiable risk factor for central venous catheter-associated bloodstream infection in newborn infants. Early planned removal of peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) is recommended as a strategy to reduce the incidence of infection and its associated morbidity and mortality.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effectiveness of early planned removal of PICCs (up to two weeks after insertion) compared to an expectant approach or a longer fixed duration in preventing bloodstream infection and other complications in newborn infants.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched of the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; 2018, Issue 4), Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Maternity & Infant Care Database, and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) (until April 2018), and conference proceedings and previous reviews.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised and quasi-randomised controlled trials that assessed the effect of early planned removal of umbilical venous catheters (up to two weeks after insertion) compared to an expectant management approach or a longer fixed duration in preventing bloodstream infection and other complications in newborn infants.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors assessed trial eligibility independently. We planned to analyse any treatment effects in the individual trials and report the risk ratio and risk difference for dichotomous data and mean difference for continuous data, with respective 95% confidence intervals. We planned to use a fixed-effect model in meta-analyses and explore potential causes of heterogeneity in sensitivity analyses. We planned to assess the quality of evidence for the main comparison at the outcome level using "Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation" (GRADE) methods.

MAIN RESULTS

We did not identify any eligible randomised controlled trials.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There are no trial data to guide practice regarding early planned removal versus expectant management of PICCs in newborn infants. A simple and pragmatic randomised controlled trial is needed to resolve the uncertainty about optimal management in this common and important clinical dilemma.

Simulation-based medical education training improves short and long-term competency in, and knowledge of central venous catheter insertion: A before and after intervention study

BACKGROUND

Multimodal educational interventions have been shown to improve short-term competency in, and knowledge of central venous catheter (CVC) insertion.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness of simulation-based medical education training in improving short and long-term competency in, and knowledge of CVC insertion.

DESIGN

Before and after intervention study.

SETTING

University Geneva Hospital, Geneva, Switzerland, between May 2008 and January 2012.

PARTICIPANTS

Residents in anaesthesiology aware of the Seldinger technique for vascular puncture.

INTERVENTION

Participants attended a half-day course on CVC insertion. Learning objectives included work organization, aseptic technique and prevention of CVC complications. CVC insertion competency was tested pretraining, posttraining and then more than 2 years after training (sustainability phase).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary study outcome was competency as measured by a global rating scale of technical skills, a hand hygiene compliance score and a checklist compliance score. Secondary outcome was knowledge as measured by a standardised pretraining and posttraining multiple-choice questionnaire. Statistical analyses were performed using paired Student's t test or Wilcoxon signed-rank test.

RESULTS

Thirty-seven residents were included; 18 were tested in the sustainability phase (on average 34 months after training). The average global rating of skills was 23.4 points (±SD 4.08) before training, 32.2 (±4.51) after training (P < 0.001 for comparison with pretraining scores) and 26.5 (±5.34) in the sustainability phase (P = 0.040 for comparison with pretraining scores). The average hand hygiene compliance score was 2.8 (±1.0) points before training, 5.0 (±1.04) after training (P < 0.001 for comparison with pretraining scores) and 3.7 (±1.75) in the sustainability phase (P = 0.038 for comparison with pretraining scores). The average checklist compliance was 14.9 points (±2.3) before training, 19.9 (±1.06) after training (P < 0.001 for comparison with pretraining scores) and 17.4 (±1.41) (P = 0.002 for comparison with pretraining scores). The percentage of correct answers in the multiple-choice questionnaire increased from 76.0% (±7.9) before training to 87.7% (±4.4) after training (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Simulation-based medical education training was effective in improving short and long-term competency in, and knowledge of CVC insertion.

Improving central line maintenance to reduce central line-associated bloodstream infections

OBJECTIVE

A human factors engineering-based intervention aimed at the modification of task behavior to increase adherence to best practices and the reduction of central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI). The hypothesis was tested that a central line maintenance kit would improve adherence and reduce CLABSI compared with a standard, nonkit-based method of performing central line maintenance.

DESIGN

The study design was a 29-month prospective, interventional, nonrandomized, observational, and clinical research study using a pre-post implementation assessment.

SETTING

The study was conducted at a tertiary hospital in the southwestern United States, with participants recruited from a total of 6 patient units (including intensive care units and general wards).

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 95 nurses and 151 patients volunteered to participate in the study.

INTERVENTION

A central line maintenance kit was developed that incorporated human factors engineering design principles. This kit was implemented hospitalwide during the clinical study to assess the intervention's influence on protocol adherence and clinical outcomes compared with a preimplementation control condition (no kit use).

RESULTS

The results of this clinical observations study suggest that a human factors engineering-based kit improved adherence to best practices during central line maintenance. In addition, the number of CLABSIs was significantly reduced during the postimplementation period.

CONCLUSIONS

The application of human factors engineering design principles in the development of medical kits can improve protocol adherence and clinical outcomes.

Comparative Analysis of Bacterial Community Composition and Structure in Clinically Symptomatic and Asymptomatic Central Venous Catheters

Totally implanted venous access ports (TIVAPs) are commonly used catheters for the management of acute or chronic pathologies. Although these devices improve health care, repeated use of this type of device for venous access over long periods of time is also associated with risk of colonization and infection by pathogenic bacteria, often originating from skin. However, although the skin microbiota is composed of both pathogenic and nonpathogenic bacteria, the extent and the consequences of TIVAP colonization by nonpathogenic bacteria have rarely been studied. Here, we used culture-dependent and 16S rRNA gene-based culture-independent approaches to identify differences in bacterial colonization of TIVAPs obtained from two French hospitals. To explore the relationships between nonpathogenic organisms colonizing TIVAPs and the potential risk of infection, we analyzed the bacterial community parameters between TIVAPs suspected (symptomatic) or not (asymptomatic) of infection. Although we did not find a particular species assemblage or community marker to distinguish infection risk on an individual sample level, we identified differences in bacterial community composition, diversity, and structure between clinically symptomatic and asymptomatic TIVAPs that could be explored further. This study therefore provides a new view of bacterial communities and colonization patterns in intravascular TIVAPs and suggests that microbial ecology approaches could improve our understanding of device-associated infections and could be a prognostic tool to monitor the evolution of bacterial communities in implants and their potential susceptibility to infections. IMPORTANCE Totally implanted venous access ports (TIVAPs) are commonly used implants for the management of acute or chronic pathologies. Although their use improves the patient's health care and quality of life, they are associated with a risk of infection and subsequent clinical complications, often leading to implant removal. While all TIVAPs appear to be colonized, only a fraction become infected, and the relationship between nonpathogenic organisms colonizing TIVAPs and the potential risk of infection is unknown. We explored bacteria present on TIVAPs implanted in patients with or without signs of TIVAP infection and identified differences in phylum composition and community structure. Our data suggest that the microbial ecology of intravascular devices could be predictive of TIVAP infection status and that ultimately a microbial ecological signature could be identified as a tool to predict TIVAP infection susceptibility and improve clinical management.

Economic Evaluation of Quality Improvement Interventions for Bloodstream Infections Related to Central Catheters: A Systematic Review

IMPORTANCE

Although quality improvement (QI) interventions can reduce central-line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) and catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSI), their economic value is uncertain.

OBJECTIVE

To systematically review economic evaluations of QI interventions designed to prevent CLABSI and/or CRBSI in acute care hospitals.

EVIDENCE REVIEW

A search of Ovid MEDLINE, Econlit, Centre for Reviews & Dissemination, New York Academy of Medicine's Grey Literature Report, Worldcat, prior systematic reviews (January 2004 to July 2016), and IDWeek conference abstracts (2013-2016), was conducted from 2013 to 2016. We included English-language studies of any design that evaluated organizational or structural changes to prevent CLABSI or CRBSI, and reported program and infection-related costs. Dual reviewers assessed study design, effectiveness, costs, and study quality. For each eligible study, we performed a cost-consequences analysis from the hospital perspective, estimating the incidence rate ratio (IRR) and incremental net savings. Unadjusted weighted regression analyses tested predictors of these measures, weighted by catheter-days per study per year.

FINDINGS

Of 505 articles, 15 unique studies were eligible, together representing data from 113 hospitals. Thirteen studies compared Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality-recommended practices with usual care, including 7 testing insertion checklists. Eleven studies were based on uncontrolled before-after designs, 1 on a randomized controlled trial, 1 on a time-series analysis, and 2 on modeled estimates. Overall, the weighted mean IRR was 0.43 (95% CI, 0.35-0.51) and incremental net savings were $1.85 million (95% CI, $1.30 million to $2.40 million) per hospital over 3 years (2015 US dollars). Each $100 000-increase in program cost was associated with $315 000 greater savings (95% CI, $166 000-$464 000; P < .001). Infections and net costs declined when hospitals already used checklists or had baseline infection rates of 1.7 to 3.7 per 1000 catheter-days. Study quality was not associated with effectiveness or costs.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Interventions related to central venous catheters were, on average, associated with 57% fewer bloodstream infections and substantial savings to hospitals. Larger initial investments may be associated with greater savings. Although checklists are now widely used and infections have started to decline, additional improvements and savings can occur at hospitals that have not yet attained very low infection rates.

Complete Genome Sequence of Biofilm-Forming Strain Staphylococcus haemolyticus S167

Staphylococcus haemolyticus S167 has the ability to produce biofilms in large quantities. Genomic analyses revealed information on the biofilm-related genes of S. haemolyticus S167. Detailed studies of biofilm formation at the molecular level could provide a foundation for biofilm control research.

Reduced central line infection rates in children with leukemia following caregiver training: A quality improvement study

Infections are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in children with acute leukemia. Central-line (CL) devices increase this population's risk of serious infections.Within the context of a quality improvement (QI) project, we tested the effect of caregiver education on CL management on the CL-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) rate among children with acute leukemia seen at a large referral center in Italy. The intervention consisted of 9 in-person sessions for education and practice using mannequins and children.One hundred and twenty caregivers agreed to participate in the initiative. One hundred and five (87.5%) completed the training, 5 (4.1%) withdrew after the first session, and 10 (8.3%) withdrew during practical sessions. After educational intervention, the overall CLABSI rate was reduced by 46% (from 6.86 to 3.70/1000 CL-days). CLABSI rate was lower in children whose caregivers completed the training (1.74/1000 CL-days, 95% CI 0.43-6.94) compared with those who did not receive any training (12.2/1000 CL-days, 95% CI 7.08-21.0, P < 0.05) or were in-training (3.96/1000 CL-days, 95% CI 1.98-7.91) at the time of infection.Caregiver training in CL management, applied within a multifaceted QI approach, reduced the rate of CLABSI in children with acute leukemia. Specific training and active involvement of caregivers in CL management may be effective to reduce CLABSI in high-risk children.

Right atrial thrombus associated with subclavian catheter developed due to total parenteral nutrition application

Central venous catheterization as a frequent routine clinical procedure may have significant complications. Mechanical complications may occur during catheter placement, whereas thromboembolic and infectious complications can be seen during follow-up. Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) associated central venous catheterizations may result in early mechanical complications and thrombotic and infectious complications in the long term.

This paper describes a patient diagnosed as mitochondrial neurogastrointestinal encephalomyopathy requiring long-term central venous catheterization for TPN implementation, who had an infected thrombus on the catheter tip resected by cardiac surgery.

In Vitro Approach for Identification of the Most Effective Agents for Antimicrobial Lock Therapy in the Treatment of Intravascular Catheter-Related Infections Caused by Staphylococcus aureus

Infection of intravascular catheters by Staphylococcus aureus is a significant risk factor within the health care setting. To treat these infections and attempt salvage of an intravascular catheter, antimicrobial lock solutions (ALSs) are being increasingly used. However, the most effective ALSs against these biofilm-mediated infections have yet to be determined, and clinical practice varies greatly. The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the efficacies of antibiotics and antiseptics in current clinical use against biofilms produced by reference and clinical isolates of S. aureus Static and flow biofilm assays were developed using newly described in vivo-relevant conditions to examine the effect of each agent on S. aureus within the biofilm matrix. The antibiotics daptomycin, tigecycline, and rifampin and the antiseptics ethanol and Taurolock inactivated established S. aureus biofilms, while other commonly used antistaphylococcal antibiotics and antiseptic agents were less effective. These findings were confirmed by live/dead staining of S. aureus biofilms formed and treated within a flow cell model. The results from this study demonstrate the most effective clinically used agents and their concentrations which should be used within an ALS to treat S. aureus-mediated intravascular catheter-related infections.

The Impact of Implementation of Bundle to Reduce Catheter-Related Bloodstream Infection Rates

Background

The aim of the study was to investigate how control bundles reduce the rate of central venous catheter-associated bloodstream infections (CVC-BSIs) rates in critically ill patients.

Methods

This is a prospective before-and-after study designed to evaluate whether a set of control measures (bundle) can help prevent CVC-BSI. The bundles included a checklist that aimed to correct practices related to CVC insertion, manipulation, and maintenance based on guidelines of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Results

We examined 123 checklists before and 155 checklists after implementation of the training program. Compared with the pre-intervention period, CVC-BSI rates decreased. Hand hygiene techniques were used correctly. CVC-BSI incidence was 9.3 and 5.1 per 1,000 catheter-days before and after the training program, respectively.

Conclusions

The implementation of a bundle and training program effectively reduces CVC-BSI rates.

Aseptic non-touch technique and catheter-related bloodstream infection in children receiving parenteral nutrition at home

OBJECTIVES

Parenteral nutrition (PN) at home is an acceptable form of delivering long-term PN for children with intestinal failure. Catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) is one of the serious complications of long-term PN and can lead to increasing morbidity and mortality. Using aseptic non-touch technique (ANTT) was proven to decrease the incidence of CRBSI in hospital patients. In this study we aimed to review the incidence of CRBSI in children receiving PN at home in our institution using the ANTT and a simplified training programme for parents and carers.

METHODS

We retrospectively collected clinical and microbiological data on all children with intestinal failure (IF) who were on treatment with PN at home under our specialist IF rehabilitation service between November 2012 and November 2013.

RESULTS

Thirty-five children were included, 16 of whom did not have any infection recorded during the study period. The overall CRBSI rate was 1.3 infections per 1000 line-days, with Staphylococcus being the commonest organism. Twenty-one children did not require catheter change and the overall catheter changes were 1.8 per 1000 line-days.

CONCLUSION

In this article, we report a low incidence of CRBSI in a single institution by using the principle of ANTT for accessing central venous catheters combined with a simplified, nurse-led, two-week standardised training programme for parents of children going home on PN.

[Technical criteria of central venous catheters: Anaesthesiologist/intensivist and pharmacist opinions]

INTRODUCTION

The lack of technical information from suppliers and from the literature, a wide variety of features and the absence of medical device reference document explain the difficulty for medical and pharmaceutical staffs to choose a central venous catheter (CVC). The aim of this study was to establish the specifications to choose a CVC according to the clinician needs.

METHODS

An analysis of suppliers' technical documentation and a literature review was performed to identify criteria and to collect them in a questionnaire to conduct semi-structured interviews between 1 pharmacist and 5 anaesthesiologists/intensivists. With these interviews, the technical criteria were classified according to their importance in 3 levels.

RESULTS

Thirteen technical criteria were identified after reading the technical documents and the literature. Among them, 8 were classified as "essential criteria" (level I) by the physicians: J-shaped guide, one clamp on each way, identified lumen, radiopacity, graduation every centimeter by 5 to 20 cm from the distal extremity, a length of 15 to 25 cm, a single-lumen catheter with a 14 to 16G way and a three-lumen catheter with 14 to 18G way. Finally, three criteria were classified as "intermediate criteria" (level II) and two as "optional criteria" (level III).

CONCLUSIONS

This collaborative approach allowed to reference new medical devices according to the clinicians needs. These CVC are a mean to respect guidelines for physicians and nurses and to secure the patient's care.

Neonatal sepsis 2004-2013: the rise and fall of coagulase-negative staphylococci

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate data for the period 2004-2013 to identify changes in demographics, pathogens, and outcomes in a single, level IV neonatal intensive care unit.

STUDY DESIGN

Sepsis episodes were identified prospectively and additional information obtained retrospectively from infants with sepsis while in the neonatal intensive care unit from 2004 to 2013. Demographics, hospital course, and outcome data were collected and analyzed. Sepsis was categorized as early (≤3 days of life) or late-onset (>3 days of life).

RESULTS

Four hundred fifty-two organisms were identified from 410 episodes of sepsis in 340 infants. Ninety percent of cases were late-onset. Rates of early-onset sepsis remained relatively static throughout the study period (0.9 per 1000 live births). For the first time in decades, most (60%) infants with early-onset sepsis were very low birth weight and Escherichia coli (45%) replaced group B streptococcus (36%) as the most common organism associated with early-onset sepsis. Rates of late-onset sepsis, particularly due to coagulase-negative staphylococci, decreased significantly after implementation of several infection-prevention initiatives. Coagulase-negative staphylococci were responsible for 31% of all cases from 2004 to 2009 but accounted for no cases of late-onset sepsis after 2011.

CONCLUSIONS

The epidemiology and microbiology of early- and late-onset sepsis continue to change, impacted by targeted infection prevention efforts. We believe the decrease in sepsis indicates that these interventions have been successful, but additional surveillance and strategies based on evolving trends are necessary.

Three-in-one parenteral nutrition in neonates and pediatric patients: risks and benefits

Parenteral nutrition (PN) is a life-sustaining therapy designed to deliver essential nutrients to patients unable to meet nutrition needs via the enteral route. PN may be delivered via a 2-in-1 system (one solution containing amino acids, dextrose, electrolytes, vitamins, minerals, and fluids and one solution containing intravenous fat emulsions [IVFEs]) or via a 3-in-1 system (all nutrients mixed in one container). Although the use of 3-in-1 PN solutions is not necessarily therapeutically advantageous, certain benefits may exist such as the potential to reduce the risk of contamination due to decreased manipulations; ease of administration, particularly in the home care setting; possible cost savings; and reduced IVFE wastage. However, the incorporation of IVFE in 3-in-1 solutions also presents unique risks for the neonatal and pediatric population such as decreased stability, increased lipid globule size, decreased sterility and the potential for increased microbial growth/infectious complications, the need to use a larger filter size, precipitation and compatibility risks, and an increased chance of catheter occlusion. This review outlines the unique issues and challenges to be considered when formulating neonatal and pediatric 3-in-1 PN admixtures. While 3-in-1 PN solutions may be advantageous for certain pediatric populations, specifically those dependent on home PN, the risks do not outweigh the benefits in neonatal patients, and use should be avoided in this population.

[New KDIGO guidelines on acute kidney injury. Practical recommendations]

The incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) in critically ill patients is very high and is associated with an increased morbidity and mortality. In 2012 the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcome (KDIGO) guidelines were published in which evidence-based practical recommendations are given for the evaluation and management of patients with AKI. The first section of the KDIGO guidelines deals with the unification of earlier consensus definitions and staging criteria for AKI. The subsequent sections of the guidelines cover the prevention and treatment of AKI as well as the management of renal replacement therapy (RRT) in patients with AKI. In each section the existing evidence is discussed and a specific treatment recommendation is given. The guidelines appreciates that there is insufficient evidence for many of the recommendations. As a specific pharmacological therapy is missing, an early diagnosis, aggressive hemodynamic optimization, tight volume control, and avoidance of nephrotoxic drugs are the only interventions to prevent AKI. If renal replacement therapy is required different modalities are available to provide an effective therapy with a low rate of adverse effects.

An engineered micropattern to reduce bacterial colonization, platelet adhesion and fibrin sheath formation for improved biocompatibility of central venous catheters

Background

Catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) and catheter-related thrombosis (CRT) are common complications of central venous catheters (CVC), which are used to monitor patient health and deliver medications. CVCs are subject to protein adsorption and platelet adhesion as well as colonization by the natural skin flora (i.e. Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis). Antimicrobial and antithrombotic drugs can prevent infections and thrombosis-related complications, but have associated resistance and safety risks. Surface topographies have shown promise in limiting platelet and bacterial adhesion, so it was hypothesized that an engineered Sharklet micropattern, inspired by shark-skin, may provide a combined approach as it has wide reaching anti-fouling capabilities. To assess the feasibility for this micropattern to improve CVC-related healthcare outcomes, bacterial colonization and platelet interactions were analyzed in vitro on a material common for vascular access devices.

Methods

To evaluate bacterial inhibition after simulated vascular exposure, micropatterned thermoplastic polyurethane surfaces were preconditioned with blood proteins in vitro then subjected to a bacterial challenge for 1 and 18 h. Platelet adhesion was assessed with fluorescent microscopy after incubation of the surfaces with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) supplemented with calcium. Platelet activation was further assessed by monitoring fibrin formation with fluorescent microscopy after exposure of the surfaces to platelet-rich plasma (PRP) supplemented with calcium in a flow-cell. Results are reported as percent reductions and significance is based on t-tests and ANOVA models of log reductions. All experiments were replicated at least three times.

Results

Blood and serum conditioned micropatterned surfaces reduced 18 h S. aureus and S. epidermidis colonization by 70% (p ≤ 0.05) and 71% (p < 0.01), respectively, when compared to preconditioned unpatterned controls. Additionally, platelet adhesion and fibrin sheath formation were reduced by 86% and 80% (p < 0.05), respectively, on the micropattern, when compared to controls.

Conclusions

The Sharklet micropattern, in a CVC-relevant thermoplastic polyurethane, significantly reduced bacterial colonization and relevant platelet interactions after simulated vascular exposure. These results suggest that the incorporation of the Sharklet micropattern on the surface of a CVC may inhibit the initial events that lead to CRBSI and CRT.

Simulation-based paediatric intensive care unit central venous line maintenance bundle training

OBJECTIVE

Research has demonstrated that additional reduction in paediatric catheter associated blood stream infection (CA-BSI) rates can be achieved through improving compliance with maintenance bundle care for central venous lines. Our objective was to improve maintenance bundle compliance rates and nursing competency surrounding central venous line (CVL) care in our paediatric intensive care unit (PICU).

METHODS

A multidisciplinary team developed a bedside simulation-based training programme to improve compliance with standard PICU CVL maintenance bundle. We then performed a randomised comparison study comparing a standard CVL bundle training process for bedside PICU nurses in a control group (CG) to an intervention group (IG) receiving bedside training to simulate a CVL dressing change and maintenance bundle followed by intermittent training refreshers. Groups were assessed for compliance with prescribed components of the CVL bundle maintenance (CVL score).

RESULTS

At baseline the CG and IG had similar mean CVL scores (p=0.725). At twelve months mean CVL bundle compliance score in the IG was significantly higher than in the CG (p<0.0001). The largest CVL score increase for IG occurred between zero and three months. Coincidentally, CA-BSI rates in the Egleston PICU significantly decreased from 1.9±2.2 BSIsper 1000/CVL days, prior to the study, to 0.6±1.6 BSIsper 1000/CVL days following implementation of the intervention (p=0.034).

CONCLUSIONS

Bedside simulation based training in CVL dressing change is associated with improved compliance with CVL maintenance bundle practice. Enhanced CVL maintenance bundle practice could contribute to reduction in CA-BSI rates.

Bacterial bloodstream infections and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern in pediatric hematology/oncology patients after anticancer chemotherapy

Purpose

Bloodstream infections in pediatric hematology and oncology represent a major problem worldwide, but this has not been studied in Qatar. In this study, we investigated the burden of infection and the resistance pattern in the bacterial etiology, in the only tertiary pediatric hematology and oncology center in Qatar.

Methods

All pediatric cancer patients (n=185) were evaluated retrospectively during the period 2004–2011; a total of 70 (38%) patients were diagnosed with bloodstream infections. Bacterial etiology was determined, along with their susceptibility patterns. Neutropenia, duration of neutropenia, fever, duration of fever, and C-reactive protein (CRP) were evaluated throughout the study.

Results

A total of 70 patients (38%) were diagnosed with acute leukemias, lymphomas, solid tumors, or brain tumors; those patients experienced 111 episodes of bacteremia. The most common Gram-positive (n=64 [55%]) isolates were Staphylococcus epidermidis (n=26), Staphylococcus hominis (n=9), and Staphylococcus haemolyticus (n=7), and the common Gram-negative (n=52 [45%]) isolates were Klebsiella pneumoniae (n=14), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (n=10), and Escherichia coli (n=7). There was a significant association observed between fever with positive blood culture and different types of cancer (P=0.035). The majority of bacteremia (n=68 [61.3%]) occurred in nonneutropenic episodes. Elevated values of CRP (≥5 mg/L) were detected in 82 (95.3%) episodes and were negatively correlated with absolute neutrophil count (ANC) (r=−0.18; P=0.248) among all cases. However, the infection-related fatality rate was 2.2% (n=4), with three caused by Gram-negative pathogens. Multidrug resistant organisms were implicated in 33 (28.4%) cases and caused three of the mortality cases.

Conclusion

Multidrug resistant organisms cause mortality in pediatric cancer patients. Investigation of antimicrobial susceptibility of these organisms may guide successful antimicrobial therapy and improve the surveillance and quality of pediatric malignancy care.

Influence of a multifaceted intervention on central line days in intensive care units: results of a national multisite study

BACKGROUND

Removing unnecessary central lines is a critical step in reducing risk of infection and was 1 focus of a national quality improvement collaborative. We examined if participating adult intensive care units (ICUs) reduced central line days during the project period compared with the period before implementation of the "On the CUSP: Stop BSI" program.

METHODS

We used a linear regression model on a total of 9,225 ICU-quarters of data to examine the effect of the intervention on total central line days of ICU participants in the national project (2008-2012), adjusting for ICU type, hospital characteristics, project cohort, season, and accounting for repeated measures on the same unit and clustering within states using random intercepts.

RESULTS

The regression results showed no significant change in preintervention quarters. However, significant decreases in total line days started during quarter 4 after intervention and differences were sustained through quarter 6. There were 4% fewer central line catheter days reported at the project's conclusion compared with the baseline.

CONCLUSIONS

To keep central lines from doing patients harm, clinicians must assess the need for lines and remove them as soon as clinically advisable to halt the possibility of infection via the line. Effective communication and empowering providers to identify unnecessarily extended use of central lines could accelerate the realization, someday, of eliminating central line associated bloodstream infections in ICUs.

Cost-effectiveness of a quality improvement programme to reduce central line-associated bloodstream infections in intensive care units in the USA

OBJECTIVE

To assess the cost-effectiveness of a multifaceted quality improvement programme focused on reducing central line-associated bloodstream infections in intensive care units.

DESIGN

Cost-effectiveness analysis using a decision tree model to compare programme to non-programme intensive care units.

SETTING

USA.

POPULATION

Adult patients in the intensive care unit.

COSTS

Economic costs of the programme and of central line-associated bloodstream infections were estimated from the perspective of the hospital and presented in 2013 US dollars.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Central line-associated bloodstream infections prevented, deaths averted due to central line-associated bloodstream infections prevented, and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis was performed.

RESULTS

Compared with current practice, the programme is strongly dominant and reduces bloodstream infections and deaths at no additional cost. The probabilistic sensitivity analysis showed that there was an almost 80% probability that the programme reduces bloodstream infections and the infections' economic costs to hospitals. The opportunity cost of a bloodstream infection to a hospital was the most important model parameter in these analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

This multifaceted quality improvement programme, as it is currently implemented by hospitals on an increasingly large scale in the USA, likely reduces the economic costs of central line-associated bloodstream infections for US hospitals. Awareness among hospitals about the programme's benefits should enhance implementation. The programme's implementation has the potential to substantially reduce morbidity, mortality and economic costs associated with central line-associated bloodstream infections.

Measurement of cardiac index by transpulmonary thermodilution using an implanted central venous access port: a prospective study in patients scheduled for oncologic high-risk surgery

Background

Transpulmonary thermodilution allows the measurement of cardiac index for high risk surgical patients. Oncologic patients often have a central venous access (port-a-catheter) for chronic treatment. The validity of the measurement by a port-a-catheter of the absolute cardiac index and the detection of changes in cardiac index induced by fluid challenge are unknown.

Methods

We conducted a monocentric prospective study. 27 patients were enrolled. 250 ml colloid volume expansions for fluid challenge were performed during ovarian cytoreductive surgery. The volume expansion-induced changes in cardiac index measured by transpulmonary thermodilution by a central venous access (CIcvc) and by a port-a-catheter (CIport) were recorded.

Results

23 patients were analyzed with 123 pairs of measurements. Using a Bland and Altman for repeated measurements, the bias (lower and upper limits of agreement) between CIport and CIcvc was 0.14 (−0.59 to 0.88) L/min/m². The percentage error was 22%. The concordance between the changes in CIport and CIcvc observed during volume expansion was 92% with an r = 0.7 (with exclusion zone). No complications (included sepsis) were observed during the follow up period.

Conclusions

The transpulmonary thermodilution by a port-a-catheter is reliable for absolute values estimation of cardiac index and for measurement of the variation after fluid challenge.

Trial Registration

clinicaltrials.gov NCT02063009

Sustained reduction of central line-associated bloodstream infections outside the intensive care unit with a multimodal intervention focusing on central line maintenance

BACKGROUND

Central venous catheter use is common outside the intensive care units (ICUs), but prevention in this setting is not well studied. We initiated surveillance for central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) outside the ICU setting and studied the impact of a multimodal intervention on the incidence of CLABSIs across multiple hospitals.

METHODS

This project was constructed as a prospective preintervention-postintervention design. The project comprised 3 phases (preintervention [baseline], intervention, and postintervention) over a 4.5-year period (2008-2012) and was implemented through a collaborative of 37 adult non-ICU wards at 6 hospitals in the Rochester, NY area. The intervention focused on engagement of nursing staff and leadership, nursing education on line care maintenance, competence evaluation, audits of line care, and regular feedback on CLABSI rates. Quarterly rates were compared over time in relation to intervention implementation.

RESULTS

The overall CLABSI rate for all participating units decreased from 2.6/1000 line-days preintervention to 2.1/1,000 line-days during the intervention and to 1.3/1,000 line-days postintervention, a 50% reduction (95% confidence interval, .40-.59) compared with the preintervention period (P .0179).

CONCLUSION

A multipronged approach blending both the adaptive and technical aspects of care including front line engagement, education, execution of best practices, and evaluation of both process and outcome measures may provide an effective strategy for reducing CLABSI rates outside the ICU.

Catheter-related and infusion-related sepsis

This article focuses on the pathogenesis, diagnosis, prevention, and management of infectious complications of intravascular cannulation and fluid infusion. Although continuous vascular access is one of the most essential modalities in modern-day medicine, there is a substantial and underappreciated potential for producing iatrogenic complications, the most important of which is blood-borne infection. Clinicians often fail to consider the diagnosis of infusion-related sepsis because clinical signs and symptoms are indistinguishable from bloodstream infections arising from other sites. Understanding and consideration of the risk factors predisposing patients to infusion-related infections may guide the development and implementation of control measures for prevention.

Guidance and examination by ultrasound versus landmark and radiographic method for placement of subclavian central venous catheters: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Background

Central venous catheters play an important role in patient care. Real-time ultrasound-guided subclavian central venous (SCV) cannulation may reduce the incidence of complications and the time between skin penetration and the aspiration of venous blood into the syringe. Ultrasonic diagnosis of catheter misplacement and pneumothorax related to central venous catheterization is rapid and accurate. It is unclear, however, whether ultrasound real-time guidance and examination can reduce procedure times and complication rates when compared with landmark guidance and radiographic examination for SCV catheterization.

Methods/Design

The Subclavian Central Venous Catheters Guidance and Examination by UltraSound (SUBGEUS) study is an investigator-initiated single center, randomized, controlled two-arm trial. Three hundred patients undergoing SCV catheter placement will be randomized to ultrasound real-time guidance and examination or landmark guidance and radiographic examination. The primary outcome is the time between the beginning of the procedure and control of the catheter. Secondary outcomes include the times required for the six components of the total procedure, the occurrence of complications (pneumothorax, hemothorax, or misplacement), failure of the technique and occurrence of central venous catheter infections.

Discussion

The SUBGEUS trial is the first randomized controlled study to investigate whether ultrasound real-time guidance and examination for SCV catheter placement reduces all procedure times and the rate of complications.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01888094

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.

IV injection of polystyrene beads for mouse model of sepsis causes severe glomerular injury

Background

Infusion fluids may be contaminated with different types of particulates that are a potential health hazard. Particulates larger than microvessels may cause an embolism by mechanical blockage and inflammation; however, it has been reported that particulates smaller than capillary diameter are relatively safe. Against such a background, one report showed that polystyrene beads smaller than capillary diameter decreased tissue perfusion in ischemia–reperfusion injury. This report suggested that polystyrene beads from 1.5- to 6-μm diameter (dia.) may have unfavorable effects after pretreatment.

Here, we investigated whether injection of polystyrene beads (3- and 6-μm dia.) as an artificial contaminant of intravenous fluid after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injection affected mortality and organ damage in mice.

Methods

Mice were divided into four groups and injected: polystyrene beads only, LPS only, polystyrene beads 30 min after LPS, or saline. A survival study, histology, blood examination, and urine examination were performed.

Results

The survival rate after LPS and polystyrene bead (6-μm dia.) injection was significantly lower than that of the other three groups. In the kidney sections, injured glomeruli were significantly higher with LPS and polystyrene bead injection than that of the other three groups. LPS and polystyrene bead injection decreased the glomerular filtration rate and led to renal failure. Inflammatory reactions induced with LPS were not significantly different between with or without polystyrene beads. Polystyrene beads were found in urine after LPS and polystyrene bead injection.

Conclusions

Injection of polystyrene beads after LPS injection enhanced glomerular structural injury and caused renal function injury in a mouse sepsis model.

Infection control in the intensive care unit

Nosocomial infections are common in many hospital departments, but particularly so on the intensive care unit, where they affect some 20 to 30% of patients. While early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are, of course, important, perhaps the greatest challenge is in the application of techniques to limit the development of such infections. This review will briefly discuss some of the background pathophysiology and epidemiology of nosocomial infection, and then focus on general and infection-specific preventative strategies individually and as part of broader infection-control programs with infection surveillance.

Biofilm matrix exoproteins induce a protective immune response against Staphylococcus aureus biofilm infection

The Staphylococcus aureus biofilm mode of growth is associated with several chronic infections that are very difficult to treat due to the recalcitrant nature of biofilms to clearance by antimicrobials. Accordingly, there is an increasing interest in preventing the formation of S. aureus biofilms and developing efficient antibiofilm vaccines. Given the fact that during a biofilm-associated infection, the first primary interface between the host and the bacteria is the self-produced extracellular matrix, in this study we analyzed the potential of extracellular proteins found in the biofilm matrix to induce a protective immune response against S. aureus infections. By using proteomic approaches, we characterized the exoproteomes of exopolysaccharide-based and protein-based biofilm matrices produced by two clinical S. aureus strains. Remarkably, results showed that independently of the nature of the biofilm matrix, a common core of secreted proteins is contained in both types of exoproteomes. Intradermal administration of an exoproteome extract of an exopolysaccharide-dependent biofilm induced a humoral immune response and elicited the production of interleukin 10 (IL-10) and IL-17 in mice. Antibodies against such an extract promoted opsonophagocytosis and killing of S. aureus. Immunization with the biofilm matrix exoproteome significantly reduced the number of bacterial cells inside a biofilm and on the surrounding tissue, using an in vivo model of mesh-associated biofilm infection. Furthermore, immunized mice also showed limited organ colonization by bacteria released from the matrix at the dispersive stage of the biofilm cycle. Altogether, these data illustrate the potential of biofilm matrix exoproteins as a promising candidate multivalent vaccine against S. aureus biofilm-associated infections.

Bringing central line-associated bloodstream infection prevention home: CLABSI definitions and prevention policies in home health care agencies

BACKGROUND

A study was conducted to investigate health care agency central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) definitions and prevention policies and pare them to the Joint Commission National Patient Safety Goal (NPSG.07.04.01), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) CLABSI prevention recommendations, and a best-practice central line care bundle for inpatients.

METHODS

A telephone-based survey was conducted in 2011 of a convenience sample of home health care agencies associated with children's hematology/oncology centers.

RESULTS

Of the 97 eligible home health care agencies, 57 (59%) completed the survey. No agency reported using all five aspects of the National Healthcare and Safety Network/Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology CLABSI definition and adjudication process, and of the 50 agencies that reported tracking CLABSI rates, 20 (40%) reported using none. Only 10 agencies (18%) had policies consistent with all elements of the inpatient-focused NPSG.07.04.01, 10 agencies (18%) were consistent with all elements of the home care targeted CDC CLABSI prevention recommendations, and no agencies were consistent with all elements of the central line care bundle. Only 14 agencies (25%) knew their overall CLABSI rate: mean 0.40 CLABSIs per 1,000 central line days (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.18 to 0.61). Six agencies (11%) knew their agency's pediatric CLABSI rate: mean 0.54 CLABSIs per 1,000 central line days (95% CI, 0.06 to 1.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The policies of a national sample of home health care agencies varied significantly from national inpatient and home health care agency targeted standards for CLABSI definitions and prevention. Future research should assess strategies for standardizing home health care practices consistent with evidence-based recommendations.

Central venous catheters and catheter locks in children with cancer: a prospective randomized trial of taurolidine versus heparin

BACKGROUND

To determine if the catheter lock taurolidine can reduce the number of catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSI) in pediatric cancer patients with tunneled central venous catheters (CVC).

PROCEDURE

During a study period of 34 months, 129 newly placed tunneled CVCs in 112 patients were randomly assigned to standard lock with heparin solution or experimental lock with a taurolidine solution (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT00735813).

RESULTS

Sixty-five CVCs were included in the standard group and 64 CVCs in the experimental group. The groups were comparable regarding patients' characteristics. A total number of 72 bloodstream infections of which 33 were CRBSIs were observed during 39,127 CVC-days. A lower rate of CRBSI (0.4 per 1,000 CVC-days) was observed in the experimental arm compared with the standard arm (1.4 per 1,000 CVC-days, incidence rate ratio (IRR) = 0.26; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.09-0.61; P = 0.001). A lower rate of total bloodstream infections (1.2 per 1,000 CVC-days) was also observed in the experimental arm compared with the standard arm (2.5 per 1,000 CVC-days, IRR = 0.49; 95% CI 0.29-0.82; P = 0.004). Median interval from catheter insertion until first CRBSI was significantly lower in the standard group (156 days, range 12-602) compared with the experimental group (300 days, range 12-1,176; P = 0.02). Premature removal of the CVC due to infection and overall CVC survival were similar in the two study groups.

CONCLUSION

Locking of long-term tunneled CVC with taurolidine significantly reduces catheter-related bloodstream infections in children with cancer.

Successful multifaceted intervention aimed to reduce short peripheral venous catheter-related adverse events: a quasiexperimental cohort study

BACKGROUND

Data concerning the effectiveness of strategies implemented to reduce short peripheral vein catheter (PVC)-related adverse events are scarce.

METHODS

A quasiexperimental study (2004-2011) was conducted to evaluate an intervention to reduce peripheral vein phlebitis (PVP) and PVC-related bloodstream infections (BSIs). Bundle intervention consisted of health care worker education and training, withdrawal of unnecessary catheters, exchange catheter policy, withdrawal of catheters at early stages of PVP, use of scales as a measuring tool, and repeated period-prevalence surveillance of PVC adverse events on wards. A Poisson exponentially weighted moving average control chart was used to assess time series analysis.

RESULTS

One thousand six hundred thirty-one patients with 2,325 short catheters inserted were prospectively followed. PVP decreased by 48% (12.1% [95% confidence interval (CI): 10.7-13.2] during the intervention period versus 23.3% [95% CI: 16.4-30.1] in preintervention period; P < .05), and no reduction of PVP measured as 1,000 catheter-days was noted (48.6 [95% CI: 46.1-51.2] vs 37.9 [95% CI: 24.5-51.4], P > .05). A significant incidence reduction in PVC-related BSIs and health care-acquired Staphylococcus aureus BSIs was also achieved.

CONCLUSION

A comprehensive multifaceted hospital approach was successful in reducing PVC-related adverse effects. Poisson exponentially weighted moving average control chart fits well as time series using Poisson data when very few events are present.

Infection-related hospitalizations are associated with increased mortality in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases

INTRODUCTION

Serious infections are an important side effect of immunosuppressive therapy used to treat Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). There have been no nationally representative studies examining the spectrum of infection related hospitalizations in patients with IBD.

METHODS

Our study consisted of all adult CD and UC related hospitalizations from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample 2007, a national hospitalization database in the United States. We then identified all infection-related hospitalizations through codes for either the specific infections or disease processes (sepsis, pneumonia, etc.). Predictors of infections as well as the excess morbidity associated with infections were determined using multivariate regression models.

RESULTS

There were an estimated 67,221 hospitalizations related to infections in IBD patients, comprising 27.5% of all IBD hospitalizations. On multivariate analysis, infections were independently associated with age, co-morbidity, malnutrition, TPN, and bowel surgery. Infection-related hospitalizations had a four-fold greater mortality (OR 4.4, 95% CI 3.7-5.2). However, this varied by type of infection with the strongest effect seen for sepsis (OR 15.3, 95% CI 12.4-18.6), pneumonia (OR 3.6, 95% CI 2.9-4.5) and C. difficile (OR 3.2, 95% CI 2.6-4.0), and weaker effects for urinary infections (OR 1.4, 95%CI 1.1-1.7). Infections were also associated with an estimated 2.3 days excess hospital stay (95% CI 2.2-2.5) and $12,482 in hospitalization charges.

CONCLUSION

Infections account for significant morbidity and mortality in patients with IBD and disproportionately impact older IBD patients with greater co-morbidity. Pneumonia, sepsis and C difficile infection are associated with the greatest excess mortality risk.

Catheter-related infection in Irish intensive care units diagnosed with HELICS criteria: a multi-centre surveillance study

BACKGROUND

Catheter-related infection (CRI) surveillance is advocated as a healthcare quality indicator. However, there is no national CRI surveillance programme or standardized CRI definitions in Irish intensive care units (ICUs).

AIM

To examine the feasibility of multi-centre CRI surveillance in nine Irish ICUs, using Hospitals in Europe Link for Infection Control through Surveillance (HELICS) definitions (CRI 1, CRI 2 and CRI 3).

METHODS

All non-tunnelled central venous catheters (CVCs) inserted in patients aged >18 years with an ICU stay ≥48 h were included over a three-month study period.

FINDINGS

Feasibility was demonstrated by the 99.5% return rate for study forms. Data on 1209 CVCs in 614 patients over 7587 CVC-days showed 17 episodes of CRI, representing a national rate of 2.2 per 1000 CVC-days [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.2-3.3]. Rates of CRI 1, CRI 2 and CRI 3 were 0.13 (95% CI 0.00-0.39), 0.79 (95% CI 0.16-1.42) and 1.39 (95% CI 0.60-2.17) per 1000 CVC-days, respectively. CRI was associated with length of ICU stay (P < 0.001), number of CVCs inserted (P < 0.001) and total number of CVC-days per patient (P < 0.001). CRI was higher in CVCs inserted in operating theatres (incident rate ratio 3.9, 95% CI 1.3-11.5; P = 0.02) compared with CVCs inserted in ICUs. Participant feedback reported minimal difficulty with surveillance implementation, and data collection required approximately 1 h per patient per week.

CONCLUSION

The study demonstrated that multi-centre ICU surveillance using HELICS CRI definitions was practical, feasible and provided clinically relevant information. CRI surveillance in ICUs, although labour intensive, is recommended to reduce CRI and allow ongoing evaluation of processes aimed at CRI reduction.