Preventing Catheter-Related Bloodstream Infection

Expected Practice

Cleanse hands with waterless cleaning solution or, if visibly soiled, with soap and water before and after patient contact.
Disinfect clean skin utilizing friction with an appropriate antiseptic (preferably 2% chlorhexadine) before catheter insertion and during site care.
Utilize full barrier precautions when inserting central venous access devices.
Educate all staff inserting and caring for intravascular catheters, assess competency of same at regular intervals, advocate adherence to standards of care.
Replace peripheral IV sites in the adult patient population at least every 96 hours but no more frequently than every 72 hours. Leave peripheral venous catheters in children until IV therapy is completed, unless complications (e.g., phlebitis and infiltration) occur.
Replace IV tubing at least every 96 hours but no more frequently than every 72 hours.
When adherence to aseptic technique during intravascular catheter insertion cannot be ensured (i.e. prehospital, code situation), replace the catheter soon as possible, but within 48 hours.