Hospitals in pursuit of excellence

Reducing CLASBI with Nursing Help

The Problem

In 2007, all 19 regional perinatal programs in New York began looking at the reduction of central-line associated blood stream infections because none of them were without incidence.

The Solution

Albany Regional Medical Center wanted to reduce CLABSI in their neonatal ICU. This New York hospital utilized the CLASBI reduction tools and training modules created by Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. The tools embrace the idea that the nursing staff is key in reducing CLABSI. It insures that at every instance of insertion and maintenance there are full barriers, gowning, gloving and masking. The staff is instructed in the practice of scrubbing the central line hub. Medication administration and tubing set up is always performed in a closed environment to ensure it was the safest environment. It is also essential to make sure that everything for the placement and maintenance of the line is in the central line pack. This includes masks, drapes, gloves and the line itself. Having complete packs serve as a reminder of the steps of the initiative; it also eliminates running and hunting for resources. Celebrating success is also important. Scores are posted and celebrations are routinely planned to keep employees engaged and aware of the processes

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