Published in: American Journal of Infection Control
Impact factor: 2.918
Because central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) are a significant complication of central venous access, it is critical to prevent CLABSIs through the use of central line bundles. The purpose of this study was to take a snapshot of central venous access bundles in various countries.
According to Dr. Reham Abdel Aziz, pediatric oncology consultant in Hospital 57357 and participant in the study, 22 countries shared in the study (46 hospitals, 85 ICU’s). The results showed that 17.4% of the participant hospitals (8 hospitals) had no surveillance system for CLABSI. Approximately 7.1 % (n = 6) ICUs had no CLABSI bundle,. 20 ICUs (23.5%) had no dedicated checklist. The percentage of using ultrasonography during catheter insertion, transparent semi-permeable dressings, needleless connectors, and single-use sterile pre-filled ready-to-use were significantly higher in countries with higher and middle-higher income.
The study demonstrated that there are significant differences in the central line bundles between low/low-middle income countries and upper-middle/high-income countries. Additional measures should be taken to address inequity in the management of vascular access in resource-limited countries.