• Naomi P O'Grady.
• Warren Magnusen Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
• J Crit Care. 2002 Jun 1; 17 (2): 114-21.

BackgroundCatheter-related bloodstream infection (CR-BSI) remains a leading cause of nososcomial infection, despite the fact that many CR-BSIs are preventable. Simple principles of infection control and the use of novel devices to reduce these infections are not uniformly implemented.ObjectiveTo review and summarize the evidence that promotes strategies to prevent CR-BSIs.Data SourcesThe Medline database and bibliographies of review articles and book chapters were searched for relevant articles.Studies IncludedIn vitro and in vivo laboratory-based studies, controlled clinical trials, prospective interventional trials, and epidemiologic investigations.Outcome MeasuresReduction in CR-BSI, catheter colonization, tunnel infection, or local site infection.SynthesisThe recommended prevention strategies with strong supportive evidence include educating and training of health care providers who insert and maintain catheters; using full barrier precautions during central venous catheter insertion; using a 2% chlorhexidine preparation for skin antisepsis; eliminating the practice of scheduled replacement of central venous catheters for prevention of infection; and using antiseptic/antibiotic impregnated short-term central venous catheters.ConclusionSimple interventions can reduce the risk for serious catheter-related infection. Health care provider awareness and adherence to these prevention strategies is critical to reducing the risk for CR-BSI, improving patient safety, and promoting quality health care.Copyright 2002, Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.

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