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.

Abstract

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. •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). •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.