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Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infection (CLABSI)
A small tube placed in a vein in the neck, chest, arm, or groin may be
called a central line or an intravenous catheter (IV). It is used to draw
blood, give fluids, or give medications. An IV may be left in place for
several days or weeks.
An IV can cause a bloodstream infection called central line-associated
bloodstream infection (CLABSI), which occurs when bacteria or other
germs enter the blood by traveling down the central line from the skin or
from the catheter opening (known as the "hub"), which is used for giving
medications or drawing blood.
Tell a healthcare professional if you have:
• Fever
• Chills
• Tenderness, redness, swelling, warmth, red streaks, or drainage at the
IV site
• Unusual fatigue
• A wet, dirty, or loose bandage where the IV enters the skin
• If the IV was pulled or is no longer secure.
Follow the Steps to Prevent HAIs, and:
• Ask when the IV can be removed.
• Ask if you can shower with the IV in place and if so, what
instructions to follow.
• Ask if you will need to use antiseptic wipes or other skin cleansing
products.
• Ask whether there are additional instructions for taking care of your
mouth (oral care).
For caregivers, ask the doctor or nurse what instructions to follow or
actions to take, if you notice any symptoms, if you see that the bandage
where the IV enters the skin is wet, dirty, or loose, or if the IV was pulled
or no longer seems secure.
