In the midst of the pressure to lower infection rates and meet CMS standards, is it possible to reduce the rate of central line infection to zero? That question was addressed in an article by Kate O’Rourke published in Anesthesiology news. The author states that new research has found that multidisciplinary team approaches are making great strides in dramatically reducing rates. She describes a study done at the University of Massachusetts finding that involving caregivers at all levels and providing frequent, regular feedback on infection rates to hospital staff are two key elements that have made these programs a success, experts said.
The article continues by quoting Matthias Walz, MD, chief of vascular anesthesiology at UMASS Medical Center, who said the guidelines at his facility were developed by a small task force and then approved by the institution’s Critical Care Operations Committee prior to implementation. “From the ICU physicians to the ICU nurses, respiratory therapists, pharmacy team, occupational therapists—everybody is at the table.” Because all disciplines were involved in creating the guidelines, all caregivers feel they have a stake in the process, he said.
A good infection control program will show positive results, however, for the success to be continued, participants must continue to be updated and motivated. Ongoing education is essential. Reducing infection rates is a total team effort by all caregivers. Communication and coordination is mandatory.
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