Download PDF
Semin Respir Crit Care Med 2003; 24(1): 023-036
DOI: 10.1055/s-2003-37914
Copyright © 2002 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

Line Sepsis in the ICU: Prevention, Diagnosis, and Management

Dennis G. Maki1,2 , Christopher J. Crnich1
  • 1Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin Medical School, Madison, Wisconsin
  • 2Infection Control Department and Center for Trauma and Life Support, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison, Wisconsin
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
14 March 2003 (online)

   Buy Article Permissions and Reprints
Zoom Image

ABSTRACT

Intravascular devices (IVDs) are universally employed in the intensive care unit. Although their use is essential for the administration of medications and IV fluids, they carry a substantial risk of infection, either from the device itself or from contamination of administered infusate. IVD-related infections lead to increased patient morbidity and mortality and excess costs, but they are preventable. The highest rates of IVD-related infection occur with central venous catheters (CVCs). Immunosuppression and other underlying illnesses further increase the risk of IVD-related infection. Coagulase-negative staphylococci, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida spp. are the most frequent infecting organisms. The incidence of IVD-related infections may be minimized by simple measures, including maximal barrier precautions during CVC placement, specialized training for personnel placing IVDs, and use of chlorhexidine for cutaneous antisepsis. Management of line sepsis should include blood cultures, treatment with appropriate antibiotics or antifungals, and, in most cases, removal and culture of the IVD.

KEYWORDS

Intravascular catheters - sepsis - bloodstream infections - catheter-related sepsis - staphylococci