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A line infection, also known as catheter-associated bloodstream infection (CRBSI), occurs when a pathogen enters the blood stream from an indwelling catheter. Reassessing an individuals need for catheter is important in the hospital setting to reduce risk of infection.
Tools + Resources
Tools + Resources
Overview of management of line infection including pathophysiology, expected presentation and treatment recommendations
Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan
Overview of diagnosis and management of CRBSI
Student Guide
Student Guide
Line Infection.docxTest Your Knowledge
Test Your Knowledge
Which of the following pathogens most commonly cause line infections?
a) E. coli
b) S. epidermidis (coagulase negative staph)
c) S. aureus
d) Candida
The following are indications for catheter removal EXCEPT?
a) Hemodynamically unstable
b) Persistent bacteremia after 24 hours of antibiotics
c) Line infection due to S. aureus
d) Swelling and pus at site of catheter
Which insertion site has the highest risk of line infections?
a) Femoral
b) Subclavian
c) Internal jugular
d) PICC
Patient has a positive catheter tip culture and has signs/symptoms of infection (fever, chills, hypotension). The gram stain shows a gram-positive organism. What is recommended for empiric treatment?
a) Cloxacillin
b) Cefazolin
c) Vancomycin
d) Piperacillin/Tazobactam
What is the recommended duration of therapy for line infection caused by S. aureus?
a) 7 days following first negative blood culture
b) 7 days total
c) 14 days following first negative blood culture
d) 14 days total
Answer Key
Answer Key
b
b
a
c
c
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