A study recently published in the American Journal of Infection Control (AJIC) has exposed the significant impact that a team of trained nurses can have on central line insertions. This interdisciplinary approach to patient care led to a nearly 50% reduction in bloodstream infections associated with central line insertion among patients involved in the program at UNC Health.
A central line, otherwise known as a central venous access device, is a more invasive alternative to an IV line. These are frequently used for patients who are critically unwell or require extended treatment. However, the use of central lines carries an increased risk of bloodstream infections. Statistically, it’s estimated that over 28,000 deaths annually in the United States are attributed to these kinds of infections. Clinical guidelines for the insertion of central lines are well-established, yet an internal study at UNC Health revealed that over 80% of insertions did not follow all recommended practices.
UNC Health sought to turn these figures around by implementing a specialized nursing team to assist during the process. These team members were responsible for ensuring compliance with central line insertion protocols, facilitating infection prevention techniques, and ensuring all necessary supplies were available for the procedure.
After analyzing bloodstream infection rates within one week of line placement, it was found that the proportion of infections associated with central line had reduced by a staggering 47% among patients whose insertion procedure was observed by the specialized team. This finding has filled a considerable knowledge gap in regards to the benefits of having a dedicated support team for central line insertions. The impact of this supportive, collaborative approach could not only help to increase patient safety at the individual level but could also potentially evolve protocols within healthcare institutions for better long-term patient outcomes.