Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) in pediatric and neonatal intensive care units-The VINCat program 2013-2022.

INTRODUCTION

Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) are among the most common and preventable hospital-acquired infections in pediatric and neonatal intensive care units (PICU-NICU). CLABSI is a common etiology of late-onset sepsis and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to describe the incidence of CLABSI in PICUs and NICUs in our geographical setting.

METHODS

Descriptive study conducted as part of the VINCat program, investigating the incidence of CLABSI in NICUs and PICUs at acute care hospitals in Catalonia from 2013 to 2022. The annual CLABSI incidence rate was calculated by multiplying the total detected cases in a year by 1000 and dividing by the total patient-days with central venous catheter (CVC).

RESULTS

NICU: The overall incidence rate was 5.59 per 1000 patient-days. Peripherally inserted CVC was involved in 59.8% of catheter-related infection, and an overall median duration of 7 days from catheter insertion to the onset of infection. PICU: The overall incidence rate was 3.62 per 1000 patient-days. Jugular venous access (44.1%) was the most common location of infections, with a median of 12 days to CLABSI. Gram-positive bacteria, especially coagulase-negative Staphylococci, were the most prevalent in both units.

CONCLUSIONS

A standardized surveillance system based on the calculation of the incidence rate of CLABSI in PICUs and NICUs can broaden our understanding of this HAI and will guide the implementation of measures of infection control and prevention.