Final answer:
CLABSI surveillance is imperative in high-risk areas such as the NICU and medical/surgical ICUs, as well as throughout the hospital to prevent and control bloodstream infections associated with central venous catheters.
Step-by-step explanation:
Central-line Associated Bloodstream Infection (CLABSI) Surveillance
Central-line associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) surveillance is required across various settings within a healthcare facility to monitor and prevent infection risks associated with central venous catheters. This includes high-risk areas like the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), medical/surgical intensive care units, and also necessitates a broader implementation throughout the hospital. Infection control protocols are essential in these areas since they involve patients who may be more susceptible to infections. CLABSI surveillance helps in identifying potential outbreaks, improving patient outcomes, and minimizing hospital-acquired infections.
The World Health Organization highlights the serious nature of catheter-related bloodstream infections, mentioning up to 80,000 cases a year in the US alone, leading to high mortality rates. Maintaining a sterile field and employing proper aseptic techniques during medical procedures are crucial in the prevention of these infections. Dr. Peter Pronovost developed a checklist to ensure that all the necessary steps were being followed during the insertion of central lines, significantly reducing the incidence of CLABSIs. Moreover, hospitals are required to adhere to strict protocols not just during catheter insertion, but also throughout the duration of catheter placement to prevent bloodstream infections.