Preventing central venous catheter-related bloodstream infection

Nurses should be able to apply evidence-based practice in a way that is appropriate for the individual patient. This article discusses one area, the incidence of central venous catheter-related bloodstream infection in acute care, to examine the available evidence and identify ways in which this evidence can be applied to practice. Research indicates that implementing best practice at the time of insertion is a principal determinant in minimising the risk of catheter-related bloodstream infection.