Successful implementation of a unit-based quality nurse to reduce central line-associated bloodstream infections

Background: Central line (CL)-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) are an important cause of patient morbidity and mortality. Novel strategies to prevent CLABSI are needed.

Methods: We described a quasiexperimental study to examine the effect of the presence of a unit-based quality nurse (UQN) dedicated to perform patient safety and infection control activities with a focus on CLABSI prevention in a surgical intensive care unit (SICU).

Results: From July 2008 to March 2012, there were 3,257 SICU admissions; CL utilization ratio was 0.74 (18,193 CL-days/24,576 patient-days). The UQN program began in July 2010; the nurse was present for 30% (193/518) of the days of the intervention period of July 2010 to March 2012. The average CLABSI rate was 5.0 per 1,000 CL-days before the intervention and 1.5 after the intervention and decreased by 5.1% (P = .005) for each additional 1% of days of the month that the UQN was present, even after adjusting for CLABSI rates in other adult intensive care units, time, severity of illness, and Comprehensive Unit-based Safety Program participation (5.1%, P = .004). Approximately 11.4 CLABSIs were prevented.

Conclusion: The presence of a UQN dedicated to perform infection control activities may be an effective strategy for CLABSI reduction.