Going with the flow or swimming against the tide: should children with central venous catheters swim?

Jessica Miller1, Meghan K Dalton, Christopher Duggan

  • 1Kathleen M. Gura, FASHP, FPPAG, Department of Pharmacy, Clinical Nutrition Service, Division of GI/Nutrition, Center for Advanced Intestinal Rehabilitation, Boston Children's Hospital, 300 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02115, USA.

Insights

Swimming with central venous catheters (CVCs) poses infection risks for children on home parenteral nutrition (PN). Limited data prevents firm recommendations, but caution is advised due to potential pathogens in water.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric critical care
  • Infectious diseases
  • Medical device safety

Background:

  • Children requiring long-term parenteral nutrition (PN) rely on central venous catheters (CVCs).
  • Recreational swimming is common for children but may pose infection risks for those with CVCs.
  • Catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) are a concern with CVC immersion in water.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review literature on infection risks for pediatric patients with CVCs who swim.
  • To assess consensus among home PN (HPN) programs regarding swimming with CVCs.

Main Methods:

  • A systematic review of 45 articles was conducted.
  • A survey of 16 pediatric HPN programs was performed regarding swimming and CVCs.

Main Results:

  • Limited data exists to make a definitive recommendation on swimming with CVCs.
  • Pathogens are present in recreational water, even chlorinated pools.
  • Practitioners can educate parents on risks, but the decision remains with them.

Conclusions:

  • Due to limited evidence and potential risks, a strong recommendation cannot be made.
  • Parents should be informed of risks; if swimming, use protective products and change dressings post-swim.
  • Further research is needed to establish evidence-based guidelines for swimming with CVCs.

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