from Kim JS, Holtom P, Vigen C 2011
published in Am J Infect Control 2011; 39: 640–646
DOI 10.1016/j.ajic.2010.11.005

Reduction of catheter-related bloodstream infections through the use of a central venous line bundle: epidemiologic and economic consequences.

The excess cost of CLABSI cases is about $32,000 per case.

The implementation of a "central venous line bundle" was evaluated to determine if it would decrease catheter-related bloodstream infections. The study used data of ICUs from 2006 and 2007 as a baseline. The intervention was implemented on all ICU patients starting from January 2008. Overall infection rates decreased in all participating ICUs. While the proportion of Gram-negative organisms did not change significantly, there was a decrease in the proportion of Gram-positive infections and an increase in fungal infections. The cost analysis determined that the excess cost of any given catheter-related bloodstream infections is approximately $32,254. Preventing catheter-related bloodstream infections can improve patient care, reduce hospital stays and costs, and potentially reduce mortality.

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