This study aimed to reduce the incidence of catheter-related bloodstream infections in intensive care units (ICUs), which are common, costly, and potentially lethal. A collaborative cohort study was conducted in Michigan, which included 105 ICUs. An evidence-based intervention was implemented consisting of optimised processes, checklists and central-line carts. Infection rates were measured before, during, and up to 18 months after the intervention. The median rate of infection per 1000 catheter-days decreased from 2.7 infections at baseline to 0 at 3 months after the intervention, and the mean from 7.7 at baseline to 1.4 at 16 to 18 months of follow-up. The evidence-based intervention resulted in a sustained reduction of up to 66% in rates of catheter-related bloodstream infection.
An intervention to decrease catheter-related bloodstream infections in the ICU.
Implementation of an evidence-based intervention reduced the rate of catheter-related bloodstream infections significantly and sustainably.