Vascular Access–Related Infections

Bacteremia, defined as a bloodstream infection (BSI), is a condition associated with high mortality and represents a highly impactful event for healthcare organizations, as it results in unfavorable outcomes in terms of quality of care. In the United States, these conditions cause more than 600 deaths each day, ranking among the leading causes of mortality in hospitalized patients [1].It is estimated that between 15% and 30% of all hospital-acquired bacteremias are associated with intravascular devices [2], both central and peripheral, with an increased risk observed in intensive care units (ICUs) and in departments such as hematology, oncology, and nephrology, as well as in university hospitals with more than 500 beds [3].Central line–associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) is a laboratory-confirmed infection that develops at least 48 hours after the insertion of a central venous catheter [4].It is a common complication associated with increased healthcare costs, prolonged hospital stay, and higher mortality [5]. An estimated 250,000 cases of CLABSI occur annually in the United States, with a mortality rate of approximately 10% [6].Peripheral lines show complication rates ranging from 2.5% to 42%. Among these complications, up to 30% include subcutaneous induration or phlebitis [7].According to several published studies, the microorganisms most frequently responsible for intravascular device–related infections are coagulase-negative staphylococci and Staphylococcus aureus (accounting for approximately two-thirds of all infections), followed by Gram-negative bacilli (20%) and yeasts [8].