Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections

Central line-associated bloodstream infection, or CLABSI, is a bloodstream infection caused from introducing a germ through a central line. A central line is a tube placed in a large vein. Central lines are normally placed in patients who cannot have a normal IV to receive medication, blood or dialysis.

How are we working to prevent CLABSI?

We strive to decrease central line usage as well as prevent infections when a central line is needed. We use a standard protocol for placement and for the care of our patients’ central lines. We also make sure that staff is “scrubbing the hubs” for five seconds prior to injecting anything into the lines. We consistently monitor our staff’s hand hygiene compliance.