Abstract
Background: Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) are an ongoing concern in health care, resulting in increased mortality, morbidity, length of stay, and additional costs to hospitals.
Local Problem: Despite intermittent improvements in CLABSI rates within our facility, long-term sustainment has been challenging.
Methods: This was a quality improvement project including a collaborative rounding approach supported by specialty nursing roles.
Interventions: In addition to implementing a variety of evidence-based interventions, the rounding team performed audits to assess performance and created focused education tools to address the identified opportunities within each individual unit.
Results: High levels of engagement as evidenced by increased audit completion resulted in CLABSI reductions. However, 2 peaks in CLABSI rates were associated with higher volumes of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) hospitalizations and decreased audits.
Conclusions: Despite challenges correlated with COVID-19, a collaborative rounding team promotes and enhances awareness of prevention methods and a culture of safety.