Central venous catheters: a survey of ICU practices

Rickard, Claire M., Courtney, Mary and Webster, Joan (2004) Central venous catheters: a survey of ICU practices. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 48 3: 247-256.


Author Rickard, Claire M.
Courtney, Mary
Webster, Joan
Title Central venous catheters: a survey of ICU practices
Journal name Journal of Advanced Nursing  (ERA 2012 Listed)    (ERA 2010 Rank A*)   Check publisher's open access policy
Publication date 2004-11
Sub-type Article
Year available 2004
DOI 10.1111/j.1365-2648.2004.03193.x
Volume number 48
Issue number 3
ISSN 0309-2402
1365-2648
Start page 247
End page 256
Total pages 10
Place of publication Oxford, U.K.
Publisher Blackwell Science
Language eng
Subject 1110 Nursing
Formatted abstract Aim. This paper describes the current infection control practices for CVC care and compares these to evidence-based practice guidelines.

Background. Intensive care patients with central venous catheters (CVCs) are at risk of catheter-related infection, which increases morbidity, mortality and health care costs. Infection control practices, including care of intravenous administration sets and catheter sites, are undertaken by nurses in an attempt to avoid infection. Although practice guidelines are available, infection control practices may vary between practitioners and institutions; however, current practice has not been formally surveyed.

Method. A prospective, cross-sectional descriptive survey was carried out. Intensive care units (n = 14) in Australia were surveyed about their infection control policies for CVC care. Results were tabulated and compared with evidence-based practice guidelines.

Results. A wide variety of responses was received about duration of administration set use for standard, parenteral nutrition and propofol (lipid-based anaesthetic) infusions; ad hoc administration set connection technique; dressing frequency, materials and solutions; and barrier precautions used during procedures. There was inconsistent adherence to the guidelines.

Conclusion. There is variation in the infection control approach to CVC care. Greater adherence to existing Centers for Disease Control Guidelines would assist in the standardization of best practice and facilitate evidence-based care.
Keyword Nursing
Central venous catheter
Infection control
Critical care
Evidence-based practice
Guidelines
Q-Index Code C1

Document type: Journal Article
Sub-type: Article
Collections: Excellence in Research Australia (ERA) - Collection
School of Nursing and Midwifery Publications
 
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Created: Fri, 16 Jan 2009, 13:01:33 EST by Judy Dingwall on behalf of Faculty Of Health Sciences