Case Study: Nazareth Hospital 2024 Achievement Award

In Safe Hands—Small/Medium Division

Eliminating Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections (CLABSI) through Implementation of a Focused Vascular Access Team

The Goal

CLABSIs have always been a focus for the infection prevention program. While there were some successful periods in which CLABSI rates dropped in the past, there were major challenges in sustaining a consistent rate of zero, and gaps existed in the process that needed to be bridged.

Intervention

The main gap identified was the need for a champion. The ideal champion would function as an expert and educator while encouraging a team approach to line necessity and maintenance, effectively bridging the gap between the clinical staff and infection prevention teams.

To reduce the risk of CLABSIs, a Vascular Access Team (VAT) was introduced to focus on three areas of opportunity:

• Provides assessment and evaluation of all central lines while performing site care
• Works with the interdisciplinary team to optimize vascular access and reduce unnecessary central lines
• Closely monitors patients at risk for CLABSI to ensure prevention strategies are in place

Additionally, the VAT provides real-time feedback to bedside staff and education as needed.

Results

After initiation of the VAT program, zero CLABSIs were achieved and sustained for 14 months. There was also a reduction in primary bloodstream infections in patients without central lines.

It is estimated that these reductions resulted in prevention of at least eight infections in that timeframe.

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Topics: Quality Initiatives

Revision Date: 2/20/2024

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