Strategic patient education program to prevent catheter-related bloodstream infection

Central venous catheters (CVCs) are used commonly for venous access during treatment, and catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) is a frequent, yet highly preventable, hospital-acquired infection. One of the performance elements of the Joint Commission's 2012 National Patient Safety Goals addresses the education of patients and family members on CVC care and management, as well as CRBSI prevention before a central catheter is inserted. This article presents the history and roles of the Infusion Therapy Team at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in CVC care and describes an organized patient education program that plays a key part in the institution's strategy to reduce and prevent CRBSI. Institutional standard policies and procedures for patient care should be in compliance with guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Joint Commission before any patient educational initiative is implemented. Such standards will serve as a guide to set up, organize, and implement an effective program.