Preventing central line associated blood stream infections while in the hospital (1423)

What is a CVAD?

CVAD stands for Central Venous Access Device. It is a special type of line that is placed in one of your child’s larger veins (the blood vessels) that go to the heart. This line can go into the neck, arm, chest, or groin.

What is a central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI)?

An infection in the blood can occur when bacteria or germs travel through the central line and enter the blood. Every time a line is disconnected or reconnected, there is a chance of infection.

• This can cause fever or chills.
• The area around the central line may become red and sore.

How is a CLABSI treated?

• It is often treated with antibiotics.
• The CVAD may also need to be removed.

What can be done to prevent infection?

You will learn how to safely care for the CVAD in the hospital and at home. Everyone should follow these guidelines. Be sure to remind others if they forget.

Everyone should:

• Clean their hands before touching the line.
• Wear clean gloves in the hospital before touching the line. Do this when cleaning the cap, giving medicines, hooking up lines, and drawing blood from the CVAD.
• Only touch the CVAD or tubing if needed.
• Keep the tubing secure so that it doesn’t get pulled, dirty, or come apart.
• Make sure the dressing over the CVAD is clean, dry, and not loose.
• Change the tubing, cap, and dressing at set times.
• It is safer to keep the IV tubing connected to the CVAD, even when meds are not running. Limit the number of times blood is drawn or medicine is given through the CVAD.
• Tell the doctor or nurse if the area around the CVAD is red or sore.

Each day, the healthcare team will decide if the CVAD is still needed. It should be removed as soon it is no longer needed.