central line-associated bloodstream infection
Also written as: CLABSI — Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infection
Healthcare-associated infection occurring in patients with central venous access devices, representing a serious complication in neonatal intensive care.
Full Definition
Central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) is defined as a laboratory-confirmed bloodstream infection in a patient who had a central line in place for more than 48 hours before the infection developed, with no other identifiable source of infection. In neonatal intensive care, central lines include umbilical arterial and venous catheters, peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs), and surgically placed central venous catheters. CLABSI represents one of the most serious nosocomial infections in NICUs, associated with increased mortality, prolonged hospitalization, and neurodevelopmental complications. Prevention strategies include strict aseptic technique during insertion and maintenance, daily assessment of line necessity, proper hand hygiene, and standardized care bundles. The diagnosis requires positive blood cultures with recognized pathogens or common skin contaminants with appropriate clinical signs.
Usage
Usage note: Always use the full term in initial reference, then CLABSI; distinguish from catheter colonization or contamination.
In Context
- "The NICU implemented a central line bundle to reduce the incidence of CLABSI in very low birth weight infants." — Quality improvement report
- "Positive blood cultures with coagulase-negative Staphylococcus in a patient with a PICC line raised concern for CLABSI." — Infection control documentation