Reducing Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections 
on Inpatient Oncology Units Using Peer Review

Area of Science:

• Infection Control and Prevention
• Oncology Nursing
• Healthcare Quality Improvement

Background:

• Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) pose a significant threat to immunocompromised patients, particularly those undergoing bone marrow transplantation and cancer treatments.
• Implementing effective infection prevention strategies is crucial in high-risk oncology settings to improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare-associated infections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a novel peer-to-peer program designed to reduce CLABSIs.
• To report the outcomes of interventions aimed at decreasing CLABSI incidence in bone marrow transplantation, medical oncology, and surgical oncology units.
• To outline the process and tools utilized for successful implementation in a Magnet®-designated academic medical center.

Main Methods:

• A peer-to-peer educational and support program was implemented across specialized oncology units.
• Interventions focused on reinforcing best practices for central line care and infection prevention.
• Data on CLABSI rates were collected and analyzed before and after program implementation.

Main Results:

• The peer-to-peer program demonstrated a reduction in the incidence of central line-associated bloodstream infections.
• Specific interventions contributed to improved adherence to infection control protocols.
• Successful implementation was achieved within a Magnet®-designated academic medical center setting.

Conclusions:

• Peer-to-peer programs are effective in improving infection control practices and reducing CLABSIs in vulnerable patient populations.
• The described program provides a scalable model for other academic medical centers seeking to enhance patient safety.
• Sustained success in infection reduction is achievable through collaborative, unit-based initiatives.