CLABSI Rounding Team

A Collaborative Approach to Prevention

Abstract

Background: 

Central line–associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) are an ongoing concern in health care, resulting in increased mortality, morbidity, length of stay, and additional costs to hospitals.

Local Problem: 

Despite intermittent improvements in CLABSI rates within our facility, long-term sustainment has been challenging.

Methods: 

This was a quality improvement project including a collaborative rounding approach supported by specialty nursing roles.

Interventions: 

In addition to implementing a variety of evidence-based interventions, the rounding team performed audits to assess performance and created focused education tools to address the identified opportunities within each individual unit.

Results: 

High levels of engagement as evidenced by increased audit completion resulted in CLABSI reductions. However, 2 peaks in CLABSI rates were associated with higher volumes of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) hospitalizations and decreased audits.

Conclusions: 

Despite challenges correlated with COVID-19, a collaborative rounding team promotes and enhances awareness of prevention methods and a culture of safety.