[Central venous catheter-related infections: risk factors and effects of glycopeptide antibiotics].

INTRODUCTION

Central venous catheters (CVC) are used in the treatment of critically ill patients. Indications for placement of CVCs include hemodynamic monitoring, administration of intravenous fluids, medications and total parenteral nutrition.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

We investigated risk factors and effects of glycopeptide antibiotics on the development of central venous catheter-related injections in 300 patients treated in intensive care units. A semiquntitative culture technique was used. The investigation included: age, diagnosis on admission, catheter insertion site, catheter duration, the first or next catheter and using of glycopeptide drugs.

RESULTS

91 catheters (30.3%) were colonised, catheter-related infection was found in 50 catheters (16.7%). Infections were more frequent in catheters inserted through the internal jugular vein than in subclavian venous catheters, they were also more frequent if duration of catheterization was longer than seven days, but less frequent in patients who received glycopeptide antibiotics. The isolated microorganism was Staphylococcus aureus. Discussion According to the literature, a number of catheter-related risk factors for infections include: insertion site, type of catheter, the number of manipulations, inadequat asepsis, lumen number, type of antiseptic. The relative importance of one risk factor over another is difficult to assess, given that studies have no priority report.

CONCLUSION

The duration of catheterization and the insertion site were the most frequent risk factors for infection. The use of glycopeptide antibiotics during catheterization has protective effects.