[Peritoneal Dialysis Network in North-East Italy: Survey About the Peritoneal Catheter Exit-Site Infection Management and Comparison with ISPD Guidelines].

Introduction. The Triveneto Peritoneal Dialysis (PD) Network aims to bring together doctors and nurses who deal with PD in a collaborative network in which to exchange mutual knowledge and optimize the use of this method of replacing renal function. A topic of particular interest was the management of peritoneal catheter exit-site infection, given the recent publication of the new guidelines of the International Society of Peritoneal Dialysis (ISPD). Materials and methods. The survey concerned the criteria for carrying out nasal swab and exit-site, management of exuberant granulation tissue "Proud Flesh", treatment of exit-site infection (ESI), use of silver dressings, the role of subcutaneous tunnel ultrasound and cuff shaving. Results. All PD centers in the North-East Italy area have joined the survey with at least one operator per centre. There was a wide variability between the indications for performing the exit-site swab. In the presence of ESI, the prevalent approach is that of oral systemic empiric therapy associated (20.0%) or less (28.9%) with topical therapy, and then adapting it in a targeted manner to the culture examination. Discussion. From the discussion of the survey emerged the importance of the ESI as an outcome indicator, which allows us to verify whether our clinical practice is in line with the reference standards. It is essential to know and base our activity on what is indicated in national and international guidelines and to document the events that occur in the patient population of each dialysis unit.

Re-hospital admission, morbidity and mortality rate in patients undergoing tunnelled catheter implantation for haemodialysis.

OBJECTIVE: Despite the effort to increase the proportion of patients starting dialysis on native accesses, many of them are still dialyzed on tunnelled catheter. Catheter-related complications are often serious and responsible for re-hospital admission, high morbidity and mortality. Several multicenter trials have reported results in the use of tunnelled dialysis catheter (TDC). However, few single-center studies have been published to verify the outcome from real-world experience. This study presents our center's experience in managing such patients in the context of relevant literature. METHODS: Demographics and operative data were retrospectively collected from medical charts. A prospective follow-up was performed to investigate complications, number of re-hospitalizations and mortality. Kaplan-Meier estimate was used to evaluate catheter primary patency and patients' overall survival. RESULTS: Among a total 298 haemodialysis accesses interventions, 105 patients (56 men, 53.3% and 49 women, 46.7%) with a median age of 65 years (range 32-88 years) were included in the study. All insertions were successful with an optimal blood flow achieved during the first session of dialysis in all cases. A catheter-related complication was detected in 33.3% (n=35) patients (48.6% infections; 28.6% TDC dysfunction; 14.3% local complications; 5.7% accidental catheter retractions; 2.8% catheter migrations). At a median follow-up of 10.5±8.5 months, a total of 85 patients (80.9%) was re-hospitalized, in 28 cases (26.7%) for a catheter-related cause. The median catheter patency rate was 122 days. At the last follow-up, 39 patients (37.1%) were still dialyzed on catheter, 30(28.6%) were dialyzed on an arteriovenous fistula and 7(6.7%) received a kidney transplantation. Two patients (2%) were transferred to peritoneal dialysis and two patients (2%) recover from renal insufficiency. Mortality rate was 23.8% (25 patients). Causes of death were myocardial infarction (n=13, 52%), sepsis (n=9, 36%); one patient (4%) died from pneumonia, one (4%) from uremic encephalopathy and one (4%) from massive hematemesis. CONCLUSION: TDCs may represent the only possible access in some patients, however they are burned with a high rate of complications, re-hospital admission and mortality. Results from this institutional experience are in line with previously published literature data in terms of morbidity and mortality. The present results reiterate once more that TDC must be regarded as a temporary solution while permanent access creation should be prioritized. Strict surveillance should be held in patients having TDC for the early identification of complications allowing the prompt treatment and modifying the catheter insertion site whenever needed.

Efficacy of sucrose and povidone-iodine mixtures in peritoneal dialysis catheter exit-site care.

BACKGROUND: Exit-site infection (ESI) is a common recurring complication in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD). Sucrose and povidone-iodine (SPI) mixtures, antimicrobial ointments that promote wound healing, have been used for the treatment of ulcers and burns, but their efficacy in exit-site care is still unclear. METHODS: This single-center retrospective observational study included patients who underwent PD between May 2010 and June 2022 and presented with episodes of ESI. Patients were divided into SPI and non-SPI groups and followed up from initial ESI onset until PD cessation, death, transfer to another facility, or June 2023. RESULTS: Among the 82 patients (mean age 62, [54-72] years), 23 were treated with SPI. The median follow-up duration was 39 months (range, 14-64), with an overall ESI incidence of 0.70 episodes per patient-year. Additionally, 43.1% of second and 25.6% of third ESI were caused by the same pathogen as the first. The log-rank test demonstrated significantly better second and third ESI-free survival in the SPI group than that in the non-SPI group (p < 0.01 and p < 0.01, respectively). In a Cox regression analysis, adjusting for potential confounders, SPI use was a significant predictor of decreased second and third ESI episodes (hazard ratio [HR], 0.22; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.10-0.52 and HR, 0.22; 95%CI, 0.07-0.73, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Our results showed that the use of SPI may be a promising option for preventing the incidence of ESI in patients with PD. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This study was approved by the Keio University School of Medicine Ethics Committee (approval number 20231078) on August 28, 2023. Retrospectively registered.

[Cuff Shaving in Recurrent Exit-Site Infections in a Patient on Peritoneal Dialysis].

In patients on peritoneal dialysis, the cutaneous emergency (exit-site) represents a potential access route to the peritoneum; consequently, it can become a site for microbial infections. These infections, initially localized to the exit-site, may spread to the peritoneum causing peritonitis, which is the most common cause of drop-out from peritoneal dialysis and transition to hemodialysis. Peritoneal catheters have dacron caps which have the function of counteracting the traction of the catheter itself and at the same time acting as a barrier for microorganisms, preventing the spread towards the peritoneum. Despite this, the same dacron cap can represent a sort of nest for microorganisms to colonize and, with the formation of a biofilm that facilitates their proliferation, make the same organisms impervious to antibiotic therapy and even resistance to them. The most effective tool for monitoring the health status of the exit-site is represented by the objective examination. This examination, through the use of well-defined scales, helps to provide a pathological score of the exit, facilitating the implementation of necessary precautions. In the presence of recurrent exit-site infections, from both Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria, minimally invasive surgical therapy is a valid approach to break this vicious circle. It helps avoid subjecting the patient to the removal of the peritoneal catheter, temporary transition to hemodialysis with the insertion of a central venous catheter, and subsequent repositioning of another peritoneal catheter. We propose the case of a recurrent Staphylococcus Aureus infection resolved after cuff shaving of the exit-site.

A meta-analysis of risk factors for a Dacron-cuffed catheter related infection in hemodialysis.

OBJECTIVE: To provide theoretical basis for prevention of a Dacron-cuffed catheter related infection (CRI), the risk factors of CRI in hemodialysis patients were systematically evaluated. METHODS: Eight databases, including PubMed, Cochrane library, EMBASE, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Chinese Biomedical Database (CBM), Wanfang Database and Chinese Scientific Journal Database (VIP), were searched to screen out literatures related to the risk factors of long-term indwelling a Dacron-cuffed CRI in hemodialysis. Meta-analysis of risk factors for a Dacron-cuffed CRI in hemodialysis and publication bias test were performed using RevMan 5.4 software. RESULTS: After screening, 13 literatures involving a Dacron-cuffed CRI were included, with a total of 625 patients, and the infection rate was 11.7%. The combined OR value and 95% confidence interval (CI) of all factors were: Combined with Diabetes (1.94, 1.51 ~ 2.50), Hb (1.82, 1.35 ~ 2.44), age (2.38, 1.06 ~ 5.34), catheter indwelling time (1.79, 1.21 ~ 2.66), serum albumin (2.26, 1.25 ~ 4.08), catheter indwelling site (3.29, 1.74 ~ 6.23) and the number of tube placement (5.40, 2.65 ~ 11.02). CONCLUSIONS: The main risk factors for a Dacron-cuffed CRI in hemodialysis were combined with diabetes, hemoglobin level, age, catheter indwelling time, serum albumin level, femoral vein catheter indwelling and catheterization times. In other words, hemodialysis patients are at higher risk of CRI if they have diabetes, or if they have a lower hemoglobin level, or if they are older, or if they have a longer duration of catheterization, or if they have a lower serum albumin level, or if they have a femoral vein catheter, or if they have more catheters.

Risk factors for catheter-associated bloodstream infection in hemodialysis patients: A meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: This meta-analysis aimed to elucidate the risk factors contributing to catheter-associated bloodstream infection in hemodialysis patients. METHODS: Comprehensive literature searches were conducted in both English and Chinese databases, which encompassed PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, CNKI, Wanfang Data, VIP Database and China Biomedical Literature Database. The search timeframe extended from each database's inception to March 8, 2023. Two independent researchers executed literature screening, data extraction, and quality assessment using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Statistical analysis of the data was performed using RevMan 5.3 software, facilitating the identification of significant risk factors associated with catheter-related bloodstream infections in hemodialysis patients. This meta-analysis is registered with PROSPERO under the registration number CRD42023406223. RESULTS: Forty-nine studies were incorporated into this meta-analysis, from which 22 risk factors were examined. Through the analysis, 17 risk factors exhibited statistical significance (P < 0.05): age (OR = 1.52, 95% CI [0.49, 4.68]), diabetes (OR = 2.52, 95% CI [1.95, 3.25]), kidney disease (OR = 3.45, 95% CI [1.71, 6.96]), history of catheter-associated infection (OR = 2.79, 95% CI [1.96, 3.98]), hypertension (OR = 1.43, 95% CI [1.08, 1.91]), dialysis duration (OR = 3.06, 95% CI [1.70, 5.50]), catheter placement site (OR = 1.91, 95%CI [1.35, 2.70]), catheter duration (OR = 2.06, 95% CI [1.17, 3.60]), number of catheterizations (OR = 4.22, 95% CI [3.32, 5.37]), catheter types (OR = 3.83, 95% CI [2.13, 6.87]), CD4+ cells (OR = 0.33, 95% CI [0.18, 0.63]), albumin (ALB, OR = 2.12, 95% CI [1.15, 3.91]), C-reactive protein (CRP, OR = 1.73, 95% CI [1.47, 2.03]), hemoglobin (Hb, OR = 1.48, 95% CI [0.54, 4.07]), procalcitonin (PCT, OR = 1.05, 95% CI [1.03, 1.06]), inadequate hand hygiene (OR = 5.32, 95% CI [1.07, 26.37]), and APACHE II scores (OR = 2.41, 95% CI [1.33, 4.37]). CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis suggests that age, diabetes, kidney disease, history of catheter-associated infection, hypertension, dialysis duration, catheter placement site, catheter duration, number of catheterizations, catheter type, CD4+ cells, albumin, C-reactive protein, hemoglobin, procalcitonin, inadequate hand hygiene, and APACHE II scores significantly influence the incidence of catheter-associated bloodstream infection in hemodialysis patients.

Trends in the prevalence and risk factors for peripherally inserted central catheter-related complications in cancer patients from 2016 to 2022: a multicenter study.

PURPOSE: To identify the trends in the prevalence of peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) related complications in cancer patients and explore the risk factors for complications and occurrence speed. METHODS: A total of 3573 cancer patients with PICC were recruited at 17 hospitals from 2016 to 2022. Logistic and COX regression were performed to identify influencing factors of PICC-related complications and incidence speed, respectively. RESULTS: The proportion of symptomatic PICC-related thrombosis, phlebitis, and infections reported had decreased from 59.1% (in 2017), 11.9% (in 2016), and 11.1% (in 2016) to 15.3% (in 2022), 2.9% (in 2022), and 7.4% (in 2022), and adhesive-related skin injuries and bleeding/oozing reported had increased from 4.8% (in 2016) and 0.0% (in 2016) to 45.5% (in 2022) and 3.4% (in 2022), respectively. Catheter occlusion showed a trend of first increasing and then decreasing from 2.4 (in 2016) to 12.0 (in 2020) to 5.8% (in 2022). Logistic regression showed that hospital level, nature, the patient's gender, age, diagnosis, history of deep vein catheterization, chemotherapy drug administration, and type of PICC were influencing factors of complications. COX regression showed that the patient's gender, age, diagnosis, history of deep vein thrombosis and thrombophlebitis, history of deep vein catheterization, chemotherapy drug administration, type of PICC, type of connector, and StatLock used for fixation were influencing factors of incidence speed. CONCLUSION: The composition ratios of PICC-related complications in cancer patients in China have changed in recent years. Chemotherapy drug administration was a significant risk factor accelerating the occurrence of complications. Maintenance factors had the maximum weight on the COX model, followed by patient factors. It is suggested that patients with high-risk factors be closely monitored and proper maintenance be performed to prevent and delay the occurrence of PICC-related complications.

Complication Rates of Central Venous Catheters: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Importance: Central venous catheters (CVCs) are commonly used but are associated with complications. Quantifying complication rates is essential for guiding CVC utilization decisions. Objective: To summarize current rates of CVC-associated complications. Data Sources: MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and CENTRAL databases were searched for observational studies and randomized clinical trials published between 2015 to 2023. Study Selection: This study included English-language observational studies and randomized clinical trials of adult patients that reported complication rates of short-term centrally inserted CVCs and data for 1 or more outcomes of interest. Studies that evaluated long-term intravascular devices, focused on dialysis catheters not typically used for medication administration, or studied catheters placed by radiologists were excluded. Data Extraction and Synthesis: Two reviewers independently extracted data and assessed risk of bias. Bayesian random-effects meta-analysis was applied to summarize event rates. Rates of placement complications (events/1000 catheters with 95% credible interval [CrI]) and use complications (events/1000 catheter-days with 95% CrI) were estimated. Main Outcomes and Measures: Ten prespecified complications associated with CVC placement (placement failure, arterial puncture, arterial cannulation, pneumothorax, bleeding events requiring action, nerve injury, arteriovenous fistula, cardiac tamponade, arrhythmia, and delay of ≥1 hour in vasopressor administration) and 5 prespecified complications associated with CVC use (malfunction, infection, deep vein thrombosis [DVT], thrombophlebitis, and venous stenosis) were assessed. The composite of 4 serious complications (arterial cannulation, pneumothorax, infection, or DVT) after CVC exposure for 3 days was also assessed. Results: Of 11 722 screened studies, 130 were included in the analyses. Seven of 15 prespecified complications were meta-analyzed. Placement failure occurred at 20.4 (95% CrI, 10.9-34.4) events per 1000 catheters placed. Other rates of CVC placement complications (per 1000 catheters) were arterial canulation (2.8; 95% CrI, 0.1-10), arterial puncture (16.2; 95% CrI, 11.5-22), and pneumothorax (4.4; 95% CrI, 2.7-6.5). Rates of CVC use complications (per 1000 catheter-days) were malfunction (5.5; 95% CrI, 0.6-38), infection (4.8; 95% CrI, 3.4-6.6), and DVT (2.7; 95% CrI, 1.0-6.2). It was estimated that 30.2 (95% CrI, 21.8-43.0) in 1000 patients with a CVC for 3 days would develop 1 or more serious complication (arterial cannulation, pneumothorax, infection, or DVT). Use of ultrasonography was associated with lower rates of arterial puncture (risk ratio [RR], 0.20; 95% CrI, 0.09-0.44; 13.5 events vs 68.8 events/1000 catheters) and pneumothorax (RR, 0.25; 95% CrI, 0.08-0.80; 2.4 events vs 9.9 events/1000 catheters). Conclusions and Relevance: Approximately 3% of CVC placements were associated with major complications. Use of ultrasonography guidance may reduce specific risks including arterial puncture and pneumothorax.

Systematic scoping review of automated systems for the surveillance of healthcare-associated bloodstream infections related to intravascular catheters.

INTRODUCTION: Intravascular catheters are crucial devices in medical practice that increase the risk of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), and related health-economic adverse outcomes. This scoping review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of published automated algorithms for surveillance of catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSI) and central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI). METHODS: We performed a scoping review based on a systematic search of the literature in PubMed and EMBASE from 1 January 2000 to 31 December 2021. Studies were included if they evaluated predictive performance of automated surveillance algorithms for CLABSI/CRBSI detection and used manually collected surveillance data as reference. We assessed the design of the automated systems, including the definitions used to develop algorithms (CLABSI versus CRBSI), the datasets and denominators used, and the algorithms evaluated in each of the studies. RESULTS: We screened 586 studies based on title and abstract, and 99 were assessed based on full text. Nine studies were included in the scoping review. Most studies were monocentric (n = 5), and they identified CLABSI (n = 7) as an outcome. The majority of the studies used administrative and microbiological data (n = 9) and five studies included the presence of a vascular central line in their automated system. Six studies explained the denominator they selected, five of which chose central line-days. The most common rules and steps used in the algorithms were categorized as hospital-acquired rules, infection rules (infection versus contamination), deduplication, episode grouping, secondary BSI rules (secondary versus primary BSI), and catheter-associated rules. CONCLUSION: The automated surveillance systems that we identified were heterogeneous in terms of definitions, datasets and denominators used, with a combination of rules in each algorithm. Further guidelines and studies are needed to develop and implement algorithms to detect CLABSI/CRBSI, with standardized definitions, appropriate data sources and suitable denominators.

The applicability of the central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) criteria for the evaluation of bacteremia episodes in pediatric oncology patients.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to investigate the applicability of the central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) criteria of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in pediatric oncology patients. METHODS: Bacteremia episodes from 2020 to 2022 from a prospective cohort of pediatric oncology patients with a central venous catheter were included. Episodes were classified by three medical experts following the CLABSI criteria as either a CLABSI or non-CLABSI (i.e., contamination, other infection source, or mucosal barrier injury-laboratory confirmed bloodstream infection (MBI-LCBI)). Subsequently, they were asked if and why they (dis)agreed with this diagnosis following the criteria. The primary outcome was the percentage of episodes where the experts clinically disagreed with the diagnosis given following the CLABSI criteria. RESULTS: Overall, 84 bacteremia episodes in 71 patients were evaluated. Following the CLABSI criteria, 34 (40%) episodes were classified as CLABSIs and 50 (60%) as non-CLABSIs. In 11 (13%) cases the experts clinically disagreed with the diagnosis following the CLABSI criteria. The discrepancy between the CLABSI criteria and clinical diagnosis was significant; McNemar's test p < .01. Disagreement by the experts with the CLABSI criteria mostly occurred when the experts found an MBI-LCBI a more plausible cause of the bacteremia than a CLABSI due to the presence of a gram negative bacteremia (Pseudomonas aeruginosa n = 3) and/or mucositis. CONCLUSIONS: A discrepancy between the CLABSI criteria and the evaluation of the experts was observed. Adding Pseudomonas aeruginosa as an MBI pathogen and incorporating the presence of mucositis in the MBI-LCBI criteria, might increase the applicability.

A comprehensive status update on modification of foley catheter to combat catheter-associated urinary tract infections and microbial biofilms.

Present-day healthcare employs several types of invasive devices, including urinary catheters, to improve medical wellness, the clinical outcome of disease, and the quality of patient life. Among urinary catheters, the Foley catheter is most commonly used in patients for bladder drainage and collection of urine. Although such devices are very useful for patients who cannot empty their bladder for various reasons, they also expose patients to catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs). Catheter provides an ideal surface for bacterial colonization and biofilm formation, resulting in persistent bacterial infection and severe complications. Hence, rigorous efforts have been made to develop catheters that harbour antimicrobial and anti-fouling properties to resist colonization by bacterial pathogens. In this regard, catheter modification by surface functionalization, impregnation, blending, or coating with antibiotics, bioactive compounds, and nanoformulations have proved to be effective in controlling biofilm formation. This review attempts to illustrate the complications associated with indwelling Foley catheters, primarily focussing on challenges in fighting CAUTI, catheter colonization, and biofilm formation. In this review, we also collate scientific literature on catheter modification using antibiotics, plant bioactive components, bacteriophages, nanoparticles, and studies demonstrating their efficacy through in vitro and in vivo testing.

Effect of intensive training and education of health care workers on the maintenance bundle of venous access devices in critically ill patients at a tertiary care academic hospital.

BACKGROUND: The maintenance bundle of care for all venous access devices (peripheral intravenous catheters, PIVC; central venous catheters, CVCs; hemodialysis ports) is important to prevent secondary sepsis in critically ill patients. This quality improvement project analyzed the effect of intensive training and education of health care workers (HCWs) on maintenance bundles for venous access devices. METHODS: The study period comprising of preintervention phase (3-months) included 25 random visits to the intensive care unit for point observations regarding maintenance of all venous access devices in-situ in all intensive care unit patients on the day of the visit. The observations were categorized as appropriate or inappropriate practices based on American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) guidelines for CVC 2020, INICC guidelines for PIVC 2017, and Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (ACQHCS) for PIVC and hemodialysis ports, December 2019. While the intervention phase (1-month) comprised intensive training and education of HCWs, postintervention phase 3 (3-months) included similar visits and point observations as during the preintervention phase. RESULTS: The maintenance of PIVC improved significantly in terms of the condition of site (from 82.7% appropriate observations to 97.8%, P < .05); condition of connectors (45.7%-56.8%, P < .05), and any attached unused IV sets (90.5%-98.56%, P < .05). For CVC, there was significant improvement in condition of insertion site (66%-94%, P < .01); condition of connectors (0%-44.37%, P < .01); fixation (91%-99.3%, P < .05); any attached unused IV sets (38.9%-97.3%, P < .01) and knowledge of HCW (96.52%-100%, P = .05). For hemodialysis ports, no significant improvement was observed. CONCLUSIONS: Intensive training and education of HCWs led to significant improvement in the maintenance bundle of care for PIVC and CVC.

Hygiene with wet wipes in bedridden patients to prevent catheter-associated urinary tract infection in cardiac surgery: A randomized controlled trial.

We assessed hygiene with wet wipes in bedridden patients with urinary catheters for catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) prevention. CAUTIs occurred in 16.5% of the control group compared to 5.9% of the intervention group (P = .035). Hygiene with wet wipes can substitute for conventional hygiene for preventing CAUTI.

The safe implementation of peripherally inserted central catheters by nurse practitioners for patients with gastroenterological diseases in Japan: a single-center retrospective study.

PURPOSE: As a safe and reliable alternative to central venous catheters (CVCs), peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are commonly used in clinical practice. However, the insertion of PICCs by nurse practitioners (NPs), especially in Japan, has not been reported extensively. Thus, we investigated the safety and efficiency of PICC insertions by NPs. METHODS: The participants were 1322 patients who underwent PICC insertion by NPs at Fujita Health University Hospital (FNPs). The basilic vein in the brachium was the preferred vein for insertion; the brachial vein was the alternative. Patients were monitored from the time of PICC insertion until its removal. Ultrasonography-guided puncture was used for all catheter insertions, and the catheter tip was replaced into the superior vena cava under fluoroscopic imaging with maximal sterile barrier precautions. The outcomes of the PICC insertions by the FNPs were evaluated retrospectively. RESULTS: Overall, 23 FNPs inserted a collective total of 1322 PICCs, which remained in place for a collective total of 23,619 catheter days. The rate of successful PICC insertion was 99% (1310 patients). The median time taken for PICC insertion was 12 min (interquartile range, 10-15 min). Intraoperative complications occurred in two patients (0.2%). The confirmed incidence of central line-associated bloodstream infection was 3.4% (45 patients), and these infections occurred on 1.9 per 1000 catheter days. The median duration of PICC placement was 15 days (range, 10-23 days). CONCLUSION: PICC insertion by NPs is safe and a potential alternative to CVC insertion by surgeons.

Topical antibiotics prophylaxis for infections of indwelling pleural/peritoneal catheters (TAP-IPC): A pilot study.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Indwelling pleural catheter (IPC) and indwelling peritoneal catheter (IPeC) have established roles in the management of malignant pleural and peritoneal effusions but catheter-related infections remain a major concern. Topical mupirocin prophylaxis has been shown to reduce peritoneal dialysis catheter infections. This study aimed to assess the (i) compatibility of IPC with mupirocin and (ii) feasibility, tolerability and compliance of topical mupirocin prophylaxis in patients with an IPC or IPeC. METHODS: (i) Three preparations of mupirocin were applied onto segments of IPC thrice weekly and examined with scanning electron microscope (SEM) at different time intervals. (ii) Consecutive patients fitted with IPC or IPeC were given topical mupirocin prophylaxis to apply to the catheter exit-site following every drainage/dressing change (at least twice weekly) and followed up for 6 months. RESULTS: (i) No detectable structural catheter damage was found with mupirocin applied for up to 6 months. (ii) Fifty indwelling catheters were inserted in 48 patients for malignant pleural (n = 41) and peritoneal (n = 9) effusions. Median follow-up was 121 [median, IQR 19-181] days. All patients tolerated mupirocin well; one patient reported short-term local tenderness. Compliance was excellent with 95.8% of the 989 scheduled doses delivered. Six patients developed catheter-related pleural (n = 3), concurrent peritoneal/local (n = 1) and skin/tract (n = 2) infections from Streptococcus mitis (with Bacillus species or anaerobes), Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. CONCLUSION: This first study of long-term prevention of IPC- or IPeC-related infections found topical mupirocin prophylaxis feasible and well tolerated. Its efficacy warrants future randomized studies.

Epidemiologic and microbiologic evaluation of catheter-line bloodstream infection in a pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplant center.

BACKGROUND: Children who underwent hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) transplants are at high risk of developing central-line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs). The present study aimed to identify possible risk factors for mortality by analyzing the clinical and laboratory characteristics of patients diagnosed with CLABSI in our pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplant unit. METHODS: The initial CLABSI episodes of 102 children were analyzed. Medical records of the patients were evaluated by preformed standardized surveys. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed to identify risk factors for mortality. RESULTS: Thirty-five patients (34.3%) were female. The median age was 48 months (3-204). The median time to onset of CLABSI was 19 days (4-150). The gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria ratio among the causative agents was 57.8% to 34.3%. The mortality rate was 12.6%. The presence of severe neutropenia, initiation of inappropriate empirical antibiotic therapy, the presence of hypotension, persistent bacteremia, pediatric intensive care unit admission, growth of carbapenemase-positive gram-negative microorganism and multidrug-resistant bacteria were significantly high in the mortality group when compared to survivors. The presence of hypotension, inappropriate empirical antibiotic therapy, and persistent bacteremia were found to be independent risk factors for mortality. CONCLUSIONS: Rational use of antibiotics, active surveillance and screening of patients together with improved infection control practices may reduce the incidence and the consequences of CLABSIs.

Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infection Risk Factors in a Pediatric Population.

BACKGROUND: Central venous line (CVL) placement in children is often necessary for treatment and may be complicated by central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI). We hypothesize that line type and clinical and demographic factors at line placement impact CLABSI rates. METHODS: This is a single-institution case-control study of pediatric patients (≤18 years old) admitted between January 1, 2015, and December 31, 2019. Case patients had a documented CLABSI. Control patients had a CVL placed during the study period and were matched by sex and age in a 2:1 ratio. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed. RESULTS: We identified 78 patients with a CLABSI and 140 patients without a CLABSI. After controlling for pertinent covariates, patients undergoing tunneled or non-tunneled CVL had higher odds of CLABSI than those undergoing PICC (OR 2.51, CI 1.12-5.64 and OR 3.88, CI 1.06-14.20 respectively), and patients undergoing port placement had decreased odds of CLABSI compared to PICC (OR .05, CI 0.01-.51). There were lower odds of CLABSI when lines were placed for intravenous medications compared to those placed for solid tumor malignancy (OR .15, CI .03-.79). Race and age were not statistically significant risk factors. DISCUSSION: Central lines placed for medication administration compared to solid tumors, PICC compared to tunneled and non-tunneled central lines, and ports compared to PICC were associated with lower odds of CLABSI. Future improvement efforts should focus on PICC and port placement in appropriate patients to decrease CLABSI rates.

Peripherally inserted central catheter securement with cyanoacrylate glue and bloodstream infection: A retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Treatment via a peripherally inserted central venous catheter is important for anticancer treatment, perioperative management, and nutrition management. In this study, we aimed to investigate the usefulness of cyanoacrylate glue (CG) in managing peripherally inserted central venous catheters in adults. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study enrolled 411 adults requiring a central venous catheter for treatment in the Chiba University Esophageal-Gastro-Intestinal Surgery department between January 2021 and October 2022. The preventive effect of CG in reducing adverse events, including infection, tip migration, and thrombus formation, was evaluated by reviewing electronic medical records, chest radiographs, and contrast-enhanced computed tomography scans. RESULTS: CG and other dressings were used in 158 (CG group) and 253 (control group) patients, respectively. The incidence of catheter infection based on the clinical course was lower in the CG group (3.2%) than in the control group (9.1%; P = 0.03). However, cases of infection confirmed by blood or catheter cultures did not differ between the CG (1.3%) and control (1.9%) groups (P = 1.0). Chest radiographs revealed that catheter tip migration (mean ± SD) was lesser in the CG group (8.2 ± 6.7 mm) than in the control group (15.0 ± 15.8 mm; P < 0.01). There were two cases of venous thrombus formation in the control group. CONCLUSION: In a population dominated by esophago-gastroenterological malignancy, peripherally inserted central catheter securement via CG was associated with decreased catheter removal because of suspected catheter infection. Further research on larger cohorts is needed to determine if other adverse events decrease following peripherally inserted central catheter securement via CG.

The incidence and risk factors of unplanned removal of peripherally inserted central catheters among adult patients: A multi-centre cohort study.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: (i) To estimate the national incidence of unplanned removal of peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) in China. (ii) To explore the associated risk factors to provide evidence for the prevention. DESIGN: A multi-centre prospective cohort study. METHODS: A representative sample of 3222 Chinese adult patients with successful PICC insertion was recruited for the PICC Safety Management Research (PATH) using a two-stage cluster sampling method from December 2020 to June 2022. Sixty hospitals from seven Chinese provinces representing all geographical regions were selected. Demographic information and PICC characteristics were collected using a standard online case report form. Risk factors for the unplanned removal of PICCs were assessed using a cause-specific hazard model and verified using a sub-distribution hazard model. STROBE guidelines were followed in reporting this study. RESULTS: Three thousand one hundred and sixty-six patients were included in the final analysis with a mean age of 59 years and a total of 344,247 catheter days. The incidence of unplanned removal was 10.04%. Female, with thrombosis history, PICC insertion due to infusion failure, valved catheter and double-lumen catheter were risk factors, whereas longer insertion and exposure length were protective factors in the cause-specific hazard model. Higher BMI became an independent risk factor in the sub-distribution hazard model. CONCLUSIONS: Unplanned removal of PICCs is a serious clinical challenge in China. Our findings call for prevention strategies targeting the identified risk factors. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE: Our study characterised the epidemiology of unplanned removal of PICCs among Chinese adult inpatients, highlighting the need for prevention among this population and providing a basis for the formulation of relevant prevention strategies. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: Patients contributed through sharing their information required for the case report form. Healthcare professionals who provide direct care to the patient at each medical centre contributed by completing the online case report form.

Tackling catheter-associated urinary tract infections with next-generation antimicrobial technologies.

Urinary catheters and other medical devices associated with the urinary tract such as stents are major contributors to nosocomial urinary tract infections (UTIs) as they provide an access path for pathogens to enter the bladder. Considering that catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) account for approximately 75% of UTIs and that UTIs represent the most common type of healthcare-associated infections, novel anti-infective device technologies are urgently required. The rapid rise of antimicrobial resistance in the context of CAUTIs further highlights the importance of such preventative strategies. In this review, the risk factors for pathogen colonization in the urinary tract are dissected, taking into account the nature and mechanistics of this unique environment. Moreover, the most promising next-generation preventative strategies are critically assessed, focusing in particular on anti-infective surface coatings. Finally, emerging approaches in this field and their likely clinical impact are examined.