Background. Because central line-associated bloodstream infections (Clabsis) are a significant complication of central venous access, it is critical to prevent Clabsis through the use of central line bundles. The purpose of this study was to take a snapshot of central venous access bundles in various countries. Methods. The participants in intensive care units (ICUs) completed a questionnaire that included information about the health center, infection control procedures, and central line maintenance. The countries were divided into 2 groups: those with a low or low-middle income and those with an upper-middle or high income. Results. Forty-three participants from 22 countries (46 hospitals, 85 ICUs) responded to the survey. Eight (17.4%) hospitals had no surveillance system for Clabsi. Approximately 7.1% (n=6) ICUs had no Clabsi bundle. Twenty ICUs (23.5%) had no dedicated checklist. The percentage of using ultrasonography during catheter insertion, transparent semi-permeable dressings, needleless connectors and single-use sterile pre-filled ready to use 0.9% NaCl were significantl<y higher in countries with higher and middle-higher income (P<0.05). Conclusions. Our study demonstrated that there are significant differences in the central line bundles between low/low-middle income countries and upper-middle/high-income countries. Additional measures should be taken to address inequity in the management of vascular access in resource-limited countries.
Devrim I, et al. Am J Infect Control. 2022 Mar 7:S0196-6553(22)00138-9. Doi : 10.1016/j.ajic.2022.02.031.