Nursing Care and Pharmacists Management of Central Venous Catheters: Evidence-Based Practices for Safety and Infection Prevention
Abstract
Background: Central Venous Catheters (CVCs) are indispensable for administering critical therapies in settings like intensive care, oncology, and hemodialysis. However, their use carries significant risks, with Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections (CLABSIs) being a foremost concern. CLABSIs contribute substantially to patient morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs, underscoring the vital importance of evidence-based catheter management.
Aim: This article aims to provide a comprehensive review of evidence-based practices for the nursing care and management of CVCs, with a primary focus on strategies to prevent infections and enhance patient safety throughout the catheter lifecycle.
Methods: The review synthesizes established guidelines and best practices, covering CVC anatomy, indications, and contraindications. It details the essential equipment, personnel competencies, and meticulous techniques required for insertion, daily maintenance, and monitoring. The critical roles of sterile protocols, skin antisepsis with chlorhexidine, appropriate dressing selection, and securement devices are emphasized.
Results: Adherence to structured care bundles significantly reduces complications. Key results highlight that meticulous hand hygiene, maximal sterile barriers during insertion, daily chlorhexidine bathing, and the use of dedicated vascular access teams are proven to lower CLABSI rates. Furthermore, daily review of catheter necessity and prompt removal when no longer indicated are crucial for minimizing infection risk and healthcare costs.
Conclusion: Effective CVC management is a fundamental nursing responsibility that directly impacts patient outcomes. A consistent, multidisciplinary approach grounded in evidence-based protocols is essential for preventing complications and ensuring patient safety.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Shaden Abdullah Alharbi, Yousef Tala Almutairi, Sheddi Raffaa Alshammari, Ranya Salem Baabbad, Ibrahim Suliman Alaboudi, Rawdah Mohammed Omar Alsomali, Amna Mohammed Ali Wahishi, Nahlah Abdulrahman Alfaraj
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