Catheter-related Bloodstream Infection Rates Research Articles

Risk Factors for Complications Associated with Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters During Induction Chemotherapy for Acute Myeloid Leukemia.

Objective Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are widely used in patients with hematologic malignancies. However, the risks of PICC-related complications during chemotherapy for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) are not fully understood. Methods We conducted a retrospective review of 128 adult patients with AML who received induction therapy by way of PICC insertion between 2012 and 2019. Results The median duration of PICC insertion was 30 days. The incidence rate of catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) was 2.4% at 30 days, and women were more likely to suffer from CRBSI than men. Local reactions at the insertion site were observed in 56 patients; however, these events did not predict CRBSI. The incidence rates of catheter-related thrombosis (CRT) were 1.6% at 30 days. Obesity put patients at an increased risk for CRT. Unexpected PICC removal occurred in 59 patients, and women were at a higher risk of catheter removal than men. Conclusion Low PICC-related complication rates, possibly associated with high rates of catheter removal, were observed during intensive chemotherapy for AML. Women and obese patients require careful monitoring of their PICC. Procedures to achieve appropriate PICC removal without increasing the complication rate need to be considered.

Comparison of 2% Chlorhexidine Gluconate in 70% Alcohol and 10% Povidone-Iodine Used for Port Catheter Dressing Changes in Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Patients: A Prospective Observational Study.

Objective:This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of 2% chlorhexidine gluconate in 70% alcohol with that of 10% povidone-iodine, for dressing changes in pediatric hematology–­oncology patients with port catheters, in preventing catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI). Methods:In this prospective, multicenter, observational, and cross-sectional study, 45 patients (25 patients for chlorhexidine, 20 patients for povidone-iodine) with port catheters were evaluated from January 2018 to May 2019. The sociodemographic, clinical, and port catheter-related variables were evaluated. The mean age of the patients was 6.28 ± 4.58 years, and 60% of patients were female.Results:Among the patients whose dressings were changed using 2% chlorhexidine gluconate in 70% alcohol, the mean number of dressing changes was 39.52 ± 29.7 and the rates of exit-site infection and CRBSI were 20% (2.37/1000 catheter-days) and 16% (1.90/1000 catheter-days), respectively. Among the patients whose dressings were changed using 10% povidone-iodine, the mean number of dressing changes was 48.0 ± 31.48 and the rates of exit-site infection and CRBSI were 15% (1.59/1000 catheter-days) and 10% (1.06/1000 catheter-days), respectively. None of the patients developed pocket infections. The rates of CRBSI and exit-site infections were not different between the 2 antiseptic solutions.Conclusion:This study found no differences between the effectiveness of 2% chlorhexidine in 70% alcohol and that of 10% povidone-iodine solution in preventing CRBSI. Therefore, both solutions can be used in dressing changes.

Pediatric Home Parenteral Nutrition in France: A six years national survey

Home Parenteral Nutrition (HPN) is the cornerstone management for children suffering from chronic intestinal failure (CIF). In France, HPN is organized from a network of 7 certified centers located in University Hospitals spread across the national territory. This study aims to review the data involving children on HPN over a 6-years period in France to outline the global and continuous improvement in care.This cross-sectional study included all children enrolled in any of the 7 French HPN certified centers from January 1st, 2014 to December 31st, 2019. Data was recorded from annual databases provided by each center regarding: age at inclusion, indication and duration of HPN, type of intravenous lipid emulsion (ILE), outcome [PN weaning off, transfer to adult center, death, intestinal transplantation (ITx)], rate of catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRSBIs) for 1000 days of HPN, Taurolidine lock procedure (TLP) use and prevalence of cholestasis defined as conjugated bilirubin ≥20 μmol/l.The number of patients increased by 43.6% from 268 in 2014 to 385 in 2019. According to the year of follow up, the indications for HPN were short bowel syndrome (SBS) (42.3-46.6%), congenital enteropathies (CE) (18.5-22.8%), chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction syndrome (CIPOS) (13.0-16.3%), long segment Hirschsprung's disease (LSHD) (9.7-13.3%), Crohn's disease (CD) (1.6-2.6%) and other non-primary digestive diseases (NPDD) such as immune deficiency, cancer or metabolic disease (4.0-9.2%). The median age at discharge on HPN decreased from 11.7 months in 2014 to 8.3 months in 2019 (p < .001). By December 31st, 2019, 44.8% of children had left the HPN program after a median duration ranging between 39.9 and 66.4 months. Among these patients, 192 (74.2%) were weaned off PN (94.7% SBS), 41 (15.8%) were transferred to adult centers for CIPOS (42%), SBS (31%) or CE (27%), 21 died (8.1%) - mostly in relation to cancer or immune deficiency - and 5 were transplanted (1.9%): 4 underwent combined liver-intestine transplantation for LSHD (n = 2), SBS, CE and one multivisceral Tx for CIPOS. The use of a composite fish-oil based ILE increased from 67.4% in 2014 to 88.3% in 2019 (p < 0.001). CRBSIs dropped from 1.04 CRSBIs per 1000 days HPN in 2014 to 0.61 in 2019 (p < 0.001) while meantime, the percentage of children receiving TLP increased from 29.4% to 63.0% (p < 0.001). The prevalence of cholestasis (conjugated bilirubin ≥ 20 μmol/l) was low and stable between 4.1 and 5.9% of children during the study period.In France, the number of children enrolled in a HPN program continuously increased over a 6 years period. SBS is the leading cause of CIF requiring HPN. The rate of CRBSIs dropped dramatically as the use of TLP increased. Mortality rate was low and mainly in relation to the underlying disease (cancer, immune deficiency). Cholestasis and intestinal Tx remained very rare.

Catheter‐related infection rates in patients receiving customized home parenteral nutrition compared with multichamber bags

AbstractBackgroundThe risk of bloodstream infections may be increased in hospitalized patients receiving ready‐made parenteral nutrition (PN) multichamber bags (MCBs) compared with customized PN; however, as highlighted in recent international guidelines, there are no comparable data relating to home PN (HPN).MethodsData from a prospectively maintained database were analyzed to compare incidence rates of catheter‐related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) between patients receiving customized HPN compared with MCB HPN at a national UK referral center between May 2018 and August 2020.ResultsSixty patients with chronic intestinal failure were commenced on MCBs and 45 received customized HPN for a total of 5914 and 7641 catheter days, respectively. No difference in CRBSI incidence was found (0.51/1000 catheter days for MCBs, 0.39/1000 catheter days for customized HPN; incidence rate ratio, 1.29; 95% CI, 0.26–6.37). Eighteen patients were switched from customized HPN to MCB HPN. The study period covered 7401 catheter days receiving customized HPN and 4834 days on MCBs. No significant change was noted in the CRBSI rates following this switch (0.27/1000 catheter days receiving customized HPN vs 0.21/1000 catheter days on MCBs; incidence rate ratio, 1.31; 95% CI, 0.12–14.3).ConclusionThe use of MCBs for HPN patients is not associated with an increased risk of CRBSI. This study will inform international guidelines and provide reassurance for the continued, safe use of MCB HPN.

A 2% taurolidine catheter lock solution prevents catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) and catheter dysfunction in hemodialysis patients.

2% taurolidine catheter lock solution without additives is safe and efficient. CRBSI and dysfunction rates compare favorably against other studies in hemodialysis. In hemodialysis patients, catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) and catheter dysfunction are common and cause significant morbidity, mortality, and costs. Catheter lock solutions reduce CRBSI and catheter dysfunction rates, but solutions containing heparin, citrate, or antibiotics are associated with adverse effects. Due to its antimicrobial and antithrombotic properties and benign safety profile, taurolidine is suitable for use in catheter lock solutions. In this study the effectiveness and safety of a catheter lock solution containing 2% taurolidine without citrate or heparin (TauroSept®, Geistlich Pharma AG, Wolhusen, Switzerland) in hemodialysis patients were investigated for the first time. Data from 21 patients receiving chronic hemodialysis via tunneled central venous catheters with 2% taurolidine solution as a catheter lock were analyzed in a single-center retrospective study and compared with the existing literature in a review. The primary endpoint was CRBSI rate. Secondary endpoints included catheter dysfunction, treatment, and costs; catheter technical problems, resolution, and costs; and adverse events. Data were compared to outcomes with standard lock solutions in the literature. No CRBSIs occurred during the observation period of 5,639 catheter days. The catheter dysfunction rate was 0.71 per 1,000 catheter days, and the catheter dysfunction treatment costs were CHF (Swiss Franc) 543 per patient. No technical problems or adverse events related to the use of 2% taurolidine-containing catheter lock solution were observed. These results compare favorably with other catheter lock solutions. A solution containing 2% taurolidine seems suitable as a hemodialysis catheter lock. In a Swiss cohort, it prevented CRBSI, limited catheter dysfunction, and was cost-efficient.

Hemodialysis Catheter-related Infections: Incidence, Microbiology and Outcome 5 years of Dubai Hospital Experience

Background: The central venous catheters (CVC) has recently become a worldwide commonest technique for vascular access, however; prone to infection and associated with other complications more than other vascular access techniques, such as fistula or graft.&#x0D; Objective: To investigate the incidence, the types of micro-organism, the most sensitive and suitable antibiotics, the outcomes associated with CVC infection in chronic hemodialysis patients treated through tunneled CVC.in a single-center population.&#x0D; Methods: The records of hemodialysis patients from January 2012 to December 2016 were reviewed. Patients above 14 years of age, on hemodialysis via a permanent tunneled catheter at any time of the mentioned period, were included. The rate of CRBSI (Catheter-Related Blood Stream Infections) was calculated as density of incidence and reported per 1000 catheter days. Patient mortality was recorded.&#x0D; Results: In 5 years, a total of 73 episodes of CRBSI in 49 hemodialysis patients were recorded. 59.2% were male with a mean age of 53.57 years. 40.8% had end-stage kidney disease secondary to diabetic nephropathy. In all, 67.3% episodes grew Gram-positive isolates, among those staphylococci epidermidis (26.4%, n=19) and staphylococci aureus (25%, n=18) were the most common organism, whereas Klebsiella pneumonia (8.3%, n=6), Enterobacter cloacae (8.3%, n=6), pseudomonas aeruginosa (5.5%, n=4) and E.coli (5.5%, n=4) were the most common Gram-negative isolates. A total of 6 isolates were multidrug-resistant, which includes Klebsiella pneumonia, Citrobacter, and E. coli. Only 1 out of 18 staphylococci aureus cases were methicillin-resistant and 21% (n=6) of Gram-negative isolates were Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing organisms. The average hospital stay was 9 days (2-30 days). The hemodialysis catheter was removed for 19 (38.77%) patients and 4 (8.1%) patients expired due to septic shock despite catheter removal and being on appropriate antibiotics.&#x0D; Conclusion: The mainstay to reduce CRBSI would be ideal to avoid catheters or decrease the duration of catheters. This can be achieved through more aggressive counseling and fast-track protocols for AV Fistulae creation at the pre-dialysis stage.

Catheter-related bloodstream infection associated with multiple insertions of the peripherally inserted central catheter in patients with hematological disorders

Patients with hematological disorders are treated with multiple cycles of chemotherapy. As a result, they often require multiple insertions of the peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) for prolonged periods of time. Although PICCs have been widely used worldwide in various patients, the safety and feasibility of the multiple insertions of the PICC in this population have not been fully verified. We performed a retrospective analysis to clarify the relationship between complications and multiple PICC insertions in patients with hematological disorders who were treated with either chemotherapy or immunotherapy. A total of 651 PICCs were inserted in 261 patients with a median age of 66 years. Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma were the most common diseases in our patient cohort. The total catheter days (CDs) was 29,485 days, with a median catheter duration of 30 days. The rate of catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) in our patient cohort at high rate of re-insertion was 2.0/1000 CDs. Although multiple PICC insertions were not a risk factor of CRBSI, our findings suggest that a prolonged catheter dwell time may be associated with CRBSI. AML was an important risk factor of CRBSI. While the PICC dwell time depends on the treatment cycle, our findings indicate that it should be limited to approximately 30 days and catheters may be removed and re-inserted as needed.

MO887THE IMPACT OF A MULTI-DISCIPLINARY CLINIC ON THE OUTCOMES OF INCIDENT DIALYSIS PATIENTS IN A REGIONAL HOSPITAL IN SINGAPORE

Abstract Background and Aims Institution of a pre-dialysis programme has been shown to improve the outcome of the chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients approaching end stage renal disease (ESRD). A renal multidisciplinary clinic (MDC) aimed at reducing unprepared dialysis initiation is known to reduce morbidity in such patients and reduce the risks of complications once the patient initiates dialysis. The design of this service is of paramount importance to ensure efficient delivery and to achieve optimal utilization of the resources. The number of patients requiring urgent initiation of dialysis is alarmingly high in Singapore as compared to elective initiation, and our hospital was no exception when we started the renal service in 2018. Patients with unplanned initiation of RRT either because of lack of referral/late referral, infrequent follow up with the nephrologist or because of other factors such as inadequate knowledge of disease trajectory, or poor compliance to medications, tended to have worse outcomes. Method We recruited the patient who initiated dialysis between July 2018 to July 2020 in our Quality Improvement (QI) project. In the MDC group, the patient will be reviewed by a dedicated team of nephrologists, renal coordinators (RC) and medical social workers (MSW) and comprises of 2 mutually exclusive components: low clearance clinic (LCC) and transitional care clinic (TCC). In the MDC, nephrologist takes a lead role for the patient’s overall medical assessment and treatment. Renal coordinator provides the CKD and dialysis education to empower patient to make the correct RRT choice. MSW provides psychosocial support and financial counselling. The LCC became operational from 07th September 2018 while the TCC was initiated on 12th July 2019. CKD patients who are deemed likely to need RRT in the coming one year by the primary nephrologist are scheduled to attend LCC. Upon initiation of haemodialysis, all patients are referred to the TCC in the first month of their discharge. In the conventional group, we recruited the patient who have not attended MDC before or after dialysis initiation. Retrospectively, their data including baseline demographic and morbidity parameters were collected in the MDC group and conventional group. Morbidity outcome like definitive dialysis access, needs of intensive care unit (ICU) admissions, complications like catheter related blood stream infections (CRBSI) and other infections, stroke and myocardial infarction (MI) were analysed. Results There are 130 patients initiated on RRT between July 2018 to July 2020. The percentage of patient started dialysis with a definitive access was greater in the MDC group (25%) as compared to the conventional group (9%) (p=0.03). Although statistically not significant, the incidence of intensive care unit (ICU) admission was also lower in the MDC group (10%) than the conventional group (31%) (p=0.06). After initiation of dialysis, the patients in the MDC group had lower rates of CRBSI (5.6%) than the conventional group (14%) (p=0.17). These patients also had lower rates of other infections and major adverse cardiovascular outcomes (13% in MDC group versus 37% in conventional group) (p=002). The rate of recurrent admission, defined as frequent admissions up to 3 times per year, was lower as well in the MDC group (13%) as compared to the conventional group (35%) (p=0.003). Conclusion This QI project has demonstrated the benefit of MDC in improving the lives of the incident dialysis patients. Moving forward, we aim to continue to evolve this clinic in order to match the changing needs of our patients, with a view to increase its uptake, and to increase the percentage of patients having elective starts with a definitive dialysis access to at least 65% as per target set in NKF-KDOQI 2009 guidelines, in order to help them achieve the maximum benefit out of this endeavour.

Modified minimal-contact COVID-19 workflow allows for safe, remote parenteral nutrition prescribing in non-critically ill patients.

BackgroundIn line with recent guidance from the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN) and the European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN) to minimize healthcare team exposure by clustering care and relying on other providers or telehealth to collect relevant nutrition assessments, our nutrition support team has adopted a modified workflow using information technology to provide parenteral nutrition (PN) remotely in a safe and timely manner. We aim to compare our prescribing adequacy and PN‐related complications before and during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) outbreak using the modified workflow in non–critically ill patients.MethodsThis study reviewed a prospectively recruited cohort of adults receiving PN in the general wards or high‐dependency units from December 5, 2019, to April 15, 2020. Demographic data, nutrition assessment, PN prescriptions, blood results, electronic notes, capillary blood glucose monitoring, and catheter‐related bloodstream infection rates were reviewed for patients who received PN.ResultsWe found that patients who started PN during COVID‐19 were more malnourished with lower body mass index and higher proportion of Subjective Global Assessment B/C scores (52 [92.9%] vs 36 [73.5%], P < .005). The proportion of patients who achieved target energy amounts within 5 days was similar in both groups. Protein prescription was >1 g/kg/day in both groups, though there was a trend of higher protein prescription during COVID‐19. Complications were similar in both groups.ConclusionOur study demonstrates that minimal contact with effective multidisciplinary communication using the modified workflow can allow for safe and timely PN administration.

Central Venous Catheter-Related Infectious Complications in Pediatric Surgical Patients: A Single-Center Experience.

The purpose of this study was to estimate the rate of central venous catheter (CVC) colonization and catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) in pediatric surgical patients at our institute and to determine the various risk factors for their occurrence. The electronic medical records of 260 children undergoing surgery with simultaneous CVC insertion were retrospectively reviewed. Data on demographics, primary organ system involved, site of CVC, CVC dwell time, CVC colonization, CRBSI, and organisms isolated on culture were collated, categorized, and analyzed. The rate of CVC colonization and CRBSI was 32.8 per 1,000 catheter days (19.6%) and 17.4 per 1,000 catheter days (10.4%), respectively. Patients with CVC colonization and CRBSI had a significantly higher proportion of patients younger than 1 year of age ( p = 0.014). The CVC dwell time was significantly higher in both CVC colonization (7 [5-8] days) and CRBSI (6 [5-9] days) patients ( p = 0.005). The frequency of femoral catheterization was significantly higher in patients with CRBSI and CVC colonization ( p < 0.001). Coagulase negative staphylococcus was the commonest isolate in CVC infections. Age (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 0.87; p = 0.009), CVC dwell time (adjusted OR = 1.28; p = 0.003), and femoral CVC (adjusted OR = 9.61; p < 0.001) were independent risk factors for CRBSI. Conclusion: This study reveals important observations regarding the infectious complications of CVC in pediatric surgical patients. The rates of CVC colonization and CRBSI in this study were found to be higher as compared with previously reported rates in Western literature. However, these findings are significant in view of paucity of existing literature in pediatric surgical patients. In our study, higher risk of CRBSI was associated with younger age, increasing CVC dwell time, and femoral venous catheterization. We recommend strict compliance with CVC insertion and maintenance practices and adherence to CVC care bundles to minimize these serious complications.

Taurolidina para prevenir infecciones asociadas a catéter venoso central en niños con insuficiencia intestinal: experiencia preliminar en un hospital terciario chileno

Taurolidine is a molecule with anti-endotoxic, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties that inhibits bacterial adhesion, allowing for its use as lock therapy for the prevention of catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSI) in long-term central venous catheters (CVC). To report a preliminary experience, the first one in Chile, using lock therapy with taurolidine for the prevention of CRBSI and to report its efficacy. A taurolidine-based solution was instilled in the CVC of three children with intestinal insufficiency dependent on parenteral nutrition, attended in a Chilean tertiary hospital, and the rate of CRBSI before and after its use was compared in retrospect. In the two patients who started lock therapy immediately after the installation of their CVC, the rate of CRBSI was brought to zero, whereas in the third patient, who had a 9 months-old CVC with a recurrent CRBSI history, an intercurrent CRBSI forced discontinuation of the prophylaxis. Lock therapy with a taurolidine-based solution prevented CRBSIs when it was begun immediately after installing the CVC, in contrast with an old CVC with a history of recurrent CRBSIs.

Cost-effectiveness of taurolidine locks to prevent recurrent catheter-related blood stream infections in adult patients receiving home parenteral nutrition: a 2-year mirror-image study

The use of long-term taurolidine locks (LTTL) seems to be effective in preventing catheter-related blood stream infections (CRBSI), especially in patients on home parenteral nutrition (HPN). This work targets the cost-effectiveness of LTTL in a cohort of adult HPN patients. A monocentric mirror-image design study was conducted in our referral centre among long-term HPN patients experiencing recurrent CRBSI. From 7th January 2011, LTTL were started after the third CRBSI episode within 12 months. CRBSI data was prospectively collected until 7th January 2013, in the same way as it had retrospectively been done before initiating LTTL. A cost-effective analysis was conducted to estimate the incremental costs and effects on CRBSI with LTTL. The efficacy of LTTL on CRBSI rate was assessed over 1000 days of catheter use. A total of 31,100 catheter days were analysed in 37 patients (median [interquartile range (IQR)]) aged 58 [42-68] years. The mean±SD proven CRBSI rate was 3.18±3.51 per 1000 catheter days before the introduction of LTTL and 0.39±1.50 per 1000 catheter days after its introduction (p<0.0001). Considering both proven and probable CRBSI requiring hospital management, LTTL reduced by (mean [bootstrap CI 95%])-2.63 [-3.26 to-2.06] infections per patient (from 2.89 [2.31 to 3.49] before to 0.26 [0.13 to 0.41] after) as well as incremental costs by-7 258 [-10 450 to -4 016] € (from 11 176 [8 004 to 14 968] € before to 3 918 [2 390 to 5 445] € after). Implementing LTTL to prevent recurrent CRBSI is cost-effective by dramatically decreasing their incidence.

Repair of central venous access devices in intestinal failure patients is safe and cost-effective: A retrospective single centre cohort study

Patients with chronic intestinal failure (IF) require home parenteral nutrition (HPN). Central venous access is needed for prolonged use of PN, usually via a long term central venous access device (CVAD). Post insertion there may be mechanical complications with a CVAD such as catheter rupture or tear. Repair of damaged CVADs is possible to avoid risks associated with catheter replacement in patients with IF. However, catheter related blood stream infections (CRBSI) are a concern when CVAD's are accessed or manipulated. To investigate the success of repair of CVADs in patients with IF on HPN, related to repair longevity and incidence of CRBSI following repair. Nutrition team records of CVAD repairs carried out in patients with IF were reviewed retrospectively for the period April 2015 to March 2019. Nutrition Clinical Nurse Specialists carried out 38 repairs in 27 patients. Male n=5, female n=22; mean age 55 years. Catheter longevity before first repair (n=27): median 851 days, IQR 137-1484 days. 30/38 (78.9%) of repairs were successful lasting ≥30days. Hospital admission was avoided in 76% of cases. 4 patients in the failed repair group underwent catheter re-insertion where 4 had a further, subsequently successful, repair, an overall success rate of 89.4% (34/38). 30-day CRBSI rate was 0.09/1000 catheter days in repaired catheters. In comparing costs, there is a potential cost saving of 2766GBP for repair compared to replacement of damaged CVADs. Repair of tunnelled CVADs in patients with IF is successful and safe with no increased risk of CRBSI. Significant cost savings may be made.

Comparing catheter related bloodstream infection rate between cuffed tunnelled and non-cuffed tunnelled peripherally inserted central catheter.

To compare catheter related blood stream infection (CRBSI) rate between cuffed tunnelled and non-cuffed tunnelled PICC. We prospectively followed 100 patients (50:50 cuffed and non-cuffed PICC) and compared CRBSI rate between these groups. Daily review and similar catheter care were performed until a PICC-related complication, completion of therapy, death or defined end-of-study date necessitate removal. CRBSI was confirmed in each case by demonstrating concordance between isolates colonizing the PICC at the time of infection and from peripheral blood cultures. A total of 50 cuffed PICC were placed for 1864 catheter-days. Of these, 12 patients (24%) developed infection, for which 5 patients (10%) had a CRBSI for a rate of 2.7 per 1000 catheter-days. Another 50 tunnelled non-cuffed PICCs were placed for 2057 catheter-days. Of these, 7 patients (14%) developed infection, for which 3 patients (6%) had a CRBSI. for a rate of 1.5 per 1000 catheter-days. The mean time to development of infection is 24 days in cuffed and 19 days in non-cuffed groups. The mean duration of utilization was significantly longer in non-cuffed than in cuffed group (43 days in non-cuffed vs 37 days in cuffed group, p = 0.008). Cuffed PICC does not further reduce the rate of local or bloodstream infection. Tunnelled non-cuffed PICC is shown to be as effective if not better at reducing risk of CRBSI and providing longer catheter dwell time compared to cuffed PICC.

Long-term outcomes of various pediatric short bowel syndrome in China.

The goal of this study was to analyze long-term outcome of various pediatric short bowel syndrome (SBS) at an intestinal rehabilitation center in China. One hundred and fifty-seven children with SBS were enrolled in this study from October 1988 to July 2019. Their long-term follow-up outcome was analyzed according to the age of disease onset, parenteral nutrition (PN) duration, and anatomic types of short bowel, respectively. The clinical characteristics, which included demographics, the length of residual small bowel, PN duration, PN dependence, SBS-related complications such as IF-related liver disease (IFALD), catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBI), and mortality were compared among the groups. The main etiology for SBS were intestinal atresia, NEC, and volvulus. Five of 157 patients did not wean off PN. The incidence of IFALD and CRBI was 24.2 and 22.3%, respectively. Sixteen cases died because of infection and liver failure and eight patients lost to follow-up. The survival rate of the 157 patients was 84.7%. PN duration was longer in the infants and children group (284 ± 457d vs. 110 ± 64d, P = 0.021; R = 0.264, P = 0.001) and more patients did not wean off PN than in the neonates group (11.6% vs. 0, P = 0.001; R = 0.295, P < 0.001). Patients with PN with a duration of longer than 90days had more CRBIs (30.6%, P = 0.025; R = 0.236, P = 0.003). Additionally, the rate of CRBI was higher in patients with stoma (30.0%, P = 0.032). There was no difference in mortality among the groups. In five PN dependence patients, none was SBS onset in neonates. Pediatric patients with SBS could achieve favorable long-term survival and enteral autonomy. Different standards of SBS classification such as the age of disease onset, PN duration, and anatomic types of short bowel did not impact the overall mortality of pediatric SBS. Prolonged PN duration positively correlated with the age of disease onset and the incidence of CRBI. Patients with the complete continuity of intestinal tract suffered less from CRBI.

Vancomycin-lock therapy for prevention of catheter-related bloodstream infection in very low body weight infants

BackgroundThis study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of vancomycin- lock therapy for the prevention of catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) in very low body weight (VLBW) preterm infant patients.MethodsOne hundred and thirty-seven cases of VLBW preterm infants who retained peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) were retrospectively reviewed, including 68 treating with heparin plus vancomycin (vancomycin-lock group) and 69 with heparin only (control group). The incidence of CRBSI, related pathogenic bacteria, adverse events during the treatment, complications, antibiotic exposure, PICC usage time, hospital stay, etc. were compared between the above two groups.ResultsThe incidence rate of CRBSI in the vancomycin-lock group (4.4%, 3/68) was significantly less than in the control group (21.7%, 15/69, p = 0.004). Total antibiotic exposure time during the whole observation period was significantly shorter in the group than in the control group (11.2 ± 10.0 vs 23.6 ± 16.1 d; p < 0.001). No hypoglycemia occurred during the locking, and the blood concentrations of vancomycin were not detectable.ConclusionsVancomycin-lock may effectively prevent CRBSI in Chinese VLBW preterm infants and reduce the exposure time of antibiotics, without causing obvious side complications.

The rate of catheter-related bloodstream infection in renal dialysis patients using central venous catheters: A retrospective study

Background: Globally, haemodialysis patients using central venous catheters remain at a huge risk for blood stream infections. Most of these infections are caused by skin dormant organisms. Patients suffering from blood stream infections have the risk of seeding the infection into distant organs leading to multiple organ failure, fulminant shock and death. Objectives: our primary objective is to calculate the rate of catheter related blood stream infections (CRBSI) in patients inevitably using central venous catheters (CVC) while waiting for their arteriovenous fistula (AVF) maturation, and compare it to the international benchmark. Our secondary objective is to compare the morbidity and mortality outcomes between patients using central venous catheters vs. patients with arteriovenous fistula. Methods: A retrospective single centre study on Tawam hospital outpatient dialysis patients, who underwent dialysis at the SEHA dialysis service (SDS) centre. Data were obtained from 1st January 2015 till 30th Dec 2015. We only included patients needed to temporarily use CVC while waiting for their AV maturation. Data were obtained from Electronic Medical Records, and analysed using SPSS. Results: The total study population was 219 patients, of them; 175 patients of them were using a CVC for their first haemodialysis session. Out of patients using CVC, 53 (30.3%) patients were admitted at least once for an episode of infection during the first year of initiation of dialysis. The number of overall admission days were higher in the CVC group (2172 days) when compared to patients who started their haemodialysis with AVF directly without using CVC initially (588 days). The rate of CRBSI in our patients using CVC temporarily appeared to be 5.2 episodes per 1000 catheter-days. The number of interventional radiology procedures needed were significantly higher in the patients using CVC. There were 16 mortality cases, of which 15 (93.8%) were in the group using CVC. Conclusion: Dialysis through central venous catheter showed to have an increase in the number of admission days (overall and related to CRBSI), morbidity and mortality when compared to arteriovenous fistula. In the light of these findings, the decision of either waiting for fistula maturation or using CVC temporarily should be carefully tailored on case by case basis. Quality improvement projects are needed to address this important problem hospital wide. Decreasing hospitalization decreases the burden and the stretch on health care services and allows to provide better patient centred care.

Dialysis Vascular Access: Where do Tunneled Catheters Stand? - A Single-Center Experience.

Introduction:Tunneled cuffed catheters (TCC) provides a short and intermediate-term access solution for dialysis patients who fail to get an arteriovenous fistula (AVF). They are associated with high morbidity and mortality along with high rates of infectious complications.Methods:We present a single-center prospective cohort of 159 TCCs inserted over one year. Patients were dialyzed in-hospital and in various peripheral dialysis units attached to the institute. The primary endpoint was catheter drop-out.Results:The mean age of patients was 41.8 ± 16.9 years. The right internal jugular vein was the commonest site of TCC insertion (66%). The absence of suitable veins was the predominant reason for TCC insertion. The mean time to catheter drop-out was 134.4 ± 83.3 days (5–399 days). Death with a working catheter was the most common cause of catheter drop-out (22.6%). About 25% of catheters were lost to catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSI), either alone or as overlap with poor flow. CRBSI rates were 3.74 episodes per 1000 catheter-days. No difference in survival between the staggered tip and split-tip catheters was found.Conclusions:With the advent of the “hub and spoke” model for dialysis in the public sector healthcare, TCCs are suboptimal with regards to patient and catheter survival, with high infection rates. It must be regarded as a temporary solution and AVF creation should be prioritized.

Reduction of Tunnelled Haemodialysis Catheters Related Infections by Intervention and Training: A 12 and 18-month Audit

Introduction: Catheter-Related Blood Stream Infections (CRBSI) are an important complication of both non tunnelled and tunnelled haemodialysis catheters, but are often poorly reported for tunnelled haemodialysis-catheters. Aim: To assess the rate, aetiology, and outcomes of CRBSI in patients using a tunnelled catheter at 12-month and 18-month audits at the newly-opened haemodialysis unit having care bundle as a part of routine catheter care. Materials and Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study involving two audits of CRBSI risk (12-month and 18-month audit) was conducted by the dialysis unit doctors and nursing staff at Medanta Super-Specialty Private Hospital, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India. Centres for Disease Control (CDC) and prevention core intervention/care bundle for Blood Stream Infections (BSI) reduction were incorporated as a part of routine catheter care. The 12-month (May 2018 to April 2019) and 18-month (May 2018 to November 2019) internal clinical audit were evaluated to assess the impact of care bundle on incidence of CRBSIs. Kidney-Disease- Outcome Quality-Initiative (KDOQI)-2006-criteria was used to define CRBSI. Statistical analysis was performed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 19.0 software (IBM Corporation, New York, United States). Descriptive and dispersion statistical analysis was done for studied variables. Results: Total patients in 12-months audit with tunnelled haemodialysis catheter were 14 (7 male and 7 female) with median age 64 years and in 18-months audit patient with tunnelled haemodialysis catheter were 18 (11 male and 7 female) with median age 67.5 years. CRBSI incidence was 2.58 per 1000 catheter days at the end of 12-month, with 132 (71.25-202.25) days of median catheter use. Over the 18-month, the incidence of CRBSI dropped to 1.99 per 1000 catheter days. Median period of catheter use increased to 149.5 (83.5-294.5) days. The primary organisms isolated were predominantly gram negative bacterias. Conclusion: Tunnelled catheters may be a reasonable alternative vascular access for haemodialysis in patients with arteriovenous fistula failure as implementation and maintenance of multidisciplinary care bundle reduces CRBSI rate in such patients.

Targeting COVID-19 prevention in hemodialysis facilities is associated with a drastic reduction in central venous catheter-related infections

BackgroundIn hemodialysis (HD) patients, central venous catheter (CVC) related bloodstream infections are a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Hygienic precautions are a key aspect of dialysis care for infection prevention, but they are not sufficient to completely avoid the occurrence of CVC related infections. During the COVID-19 pandemic, hygienic precautions for preventing viral transmission have been markedly reinforced. We evaluated their effects on CVC-related infection rates.MethodsAn observational retrospective study was conducted in two hemodialysis units of the same institution treating 215 chronic hemodialysis patients, 71 of whom are currently (33%) using a CVC. In the CVC cohort, we compared data on catheter-related infection rates during the maximum spread of the COVID-19 pandemic in Italy (February to May 2020) with data from the same period of the previous year and with the whole of 2019.ResultsIn 2019, we recorded a catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) rate of 1.19 (95% CI 0.81–1.68)/1000 days [2.07 (95% CI 1.12–3.52)/1000 days in the Feb-May 2019 period] and a tunnel and exit-site infection rate of 0.82 (95% CI 0.51–1.24)/1000 days [1.04 (95% CI 0.41–2.15)/1000 days in the Feb–May 2019 period]. Infection rates drastically decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic, with just one catheter-related bloodstream infection being recorded. Catheter-related bloodstream infection rates showed a significant reduction to 0.20 (95% CI 0.01–0.9)/1000 days (p < 0.05 and p < 0.005 compared to 2019 and to Feb-May 2019, respectively) and a non-significant reduction in tunnel and exit-site infections to 0.6 (95% CI 0.15–1.6)/1000 days.ConclusionsThe observed 91% reduction in catheter-related bloodstream infections compared to the same period in 2019 [IRR 0.09 (95% CI 0.002–0.64)] and the 83% reduction compared to the whole of 2019 [IRR 0.17 (95% CI 0.004–1.009)] suggest that a stricter implementation of hygienic precautions in the dialysis setting can markedly improve the problem of CVC-related infections.Graphic abstract