Central Line Care: Empowering Patients to Prevent Infection and Injury Via EPIC2

Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) are associated with an increased risk of mortality, prolonged hospitalizations, and inflated cost of care. Patients in the hematology-oncology specialty unit are at greater risk of developing CLABSIs because of their immunocompromised state and high number of central line (CL) days.

The aim of the EPIC2 project was to reduce CLABSI rates on a hematology-oncology specialty unit with historically high CLABSI rates despite prior quality improvement efforts.

EPIC2 used the theory of planned behavior as the framework for changing patient behavior and was based on evidence from the Partners in Your Care© handwashing study that successfully engaged patients to hold healthcare professionals accountable.

The three-month preintervention average CLABSI rate was 5.69. During the intervention period, the average rate was 3.24. This accounted for a 43% reduction in CLABSIs. Participants in the EPIC2 project reported feeling empowered to speak up against improper CL care.