CLABSI prevention across the central-line lifecycle

Risk continues after insertion

Central-line infection prevention extends beyond a successful insertion. WHO guidance covers preparation, insertion, maintenance, access, replacement and removal.^[1] This makes the handover between inserting staff and the continuing care team part of the improvement opportunity.

What the guidance emphasises

WHO highlights aseptic technique, hand hygiene, training, care bundles and surveillance.^[1] CDC also addresses insertion-site assessment and patient-reported changes.^[2] Product and dressing choices require attention to age, device type and labelled indications; adult recommendations should not automatically be extended to premature neonates.

A teamwork suggestion

ICORP suggests mapping the pathway from the insertion request to removal. Specify handover information, maintenance ownership and escalation when equipment or the site appears abnormal. Practise realistic scenarios and make help accessible when an agreed technique cannot be maintained. Clinical and infection-prevention teams should approve the local process.

Interpret indicators carefully

Suggested improvement measures combine infection outcomes with line exposure, necessity reviews and observed care problems. Comparisons require consistent surveillance definitions and attention to patient mix. Do not use a surveillance category such as CLABSI interchangeably with a clinically established catheter-caused infection without checking the relevant definitions.