A central-line associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) is a serious infection that occurs when germs enter the bloodstream through a central line. A central line is a tube that healthcare providers place in a large vein in the neck, chest or arm to give fluids, blood or medications or to perform certain medical tests quickly. The germs that cause CLABSIs are usually bacteria and can come from a variety of sources, including the patient's own skin, the hospital environment and clinical staff. In some cases, germs are introduced inadvertently into the bloodstream when the central line is accessed days or weeks after being inserted.
The CDC estimates that 41,000 CLABSIs occurred among hospitalized patients in 2009, 18,000 of them in ICUs. CLABSIs are among the most serious HACs, resulting in death for about 12 percent to 25 percent of affected patients.
Goal: The Partnership for Patients estimates that 50 percent of CLABSIs are preventable. The goal set for hospitals is to reduce preventable CLABSIs by 50 percent by 2013. Over three years, this would prevent 17,500 CLABSIs.
