Glossary
Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infection (CLABSI) is a serious infection that occurs when germs, usually bacteria or viruses, enter the bloodstream through the central line. A central line is a widely used medical device that is inserted into a large vein in the neck, chest, or groin to administer medication or fluids, collect blood tests, and directly obtain cardiovascular measurements. Understanding the term CLABSI necessitates a deeper comprehension of what a central line is. A central line is not the same as a regular intravenous (IV) line. While a regular IV is typically inserted into a small vein that is just beneath the skin's surface for short-term use, a central line is much longer and is usually placed in larger veins of the body. The central line can remain in place for weeks or even months and allows secure access to a patient's bloodstream.
CLABSI is a significant concern in the medical field because it often leads to extended hospital stays, increased cost of care, and increased mortality. The infection is typically severe and can be life-threatening, especially for patients in intensive care units (ICUs), where the risk of infection is higher due to the critical nature of the patient's conditions and the frequent use of central lines. The occurrence of CLABSI is often associated with the introduction of bacteria at the time of central line insertion or later through the central line hub. The skin is a natural barrier to infection, and any break in the skin, such as a central line, can allow bacteria to enter the body. The bacteria can then travel along the outside or the inside of the line and enter the bloodstream, causing a serious infection. Preventing CLABSI is a critical aspect of patient safety and care quality. The risk of infection can be minimized by following strict infection control practices during the insertion and maintenance of central lines. These practices include hand hygiene, using full-barrier precautions during the insertion of central lines, cleaning the skin with an appropriate antiseptic, and avoiding the femoral site for insertion when possible. Additionally, healthcare providers should assess daily the need for central lines and promptly remove them when they are no longer necessary.
The symptoms of CLABSI can vary depending on the patient's overall health status and the type of bacteria causing the infection. Common symptoms may include fever and chills, but in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. Diagnosis of CLABSI typically involves blood tests to identify the type of bacteria causing the infection and to determine the most effective treatment. Treatment for CLABSI often involves antibiotics to fight the infection. In some cases, the central line may need to be removed and a new one placed at a different site. The specific treatment plan will depend on several factors, including the type of bacteria causing the infection, the patient's overall health status, and the severity of the infection.
In conclusion, Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infection (CLABSI) is a severe infection that occurs when bacteria or viruses enter the bloodstream through a central line. It is a significant concern in healthcare due to its potential to cause serious illness, extended hospital stays, and increased healthcare costs. Preventing CLABSI involves strict adherence to infection control practices, including proper hand hygiene, full-barrier precautions during central line insertion, appropriate skin cleaning, and timely removal of central lines when they are no longer needed.