How Effective Are IV Catheter Disinfection Caps?

Using antiseptic barrier caps for intravenous catheter ports reduced rates of central-line–associated bloodstream infections and blood culture contamination in a high-risk cancer unit.

“Reducing to zero” the rate of central-line–associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) requires optimizing not only the approach to catheter insertion, but also the approach to maintaining the catheters. One recently invented approach to decrease CLABSI rates is the use of catheter-port antiseptic barrier caps that contain an antiseptic-impregnated sponge that initially disinfects the port hub during placement and thereafter physically covers the hub. Investigators have now performed a multiphase prospective trial to assess the efficacy of antiseptic barrier caps in reducing rates of CLABSIs and blood culture contamination in a single tertiary-care cancer center.

The introduction of disinfection caps was associated with a significant decrea…

Reviewing Author

Richard T. Ellison III, MD

Disclosures

Consult/Advisory BoardAcurx Pharmaceuticals, LLC;

Grant/Research SupportDoctors Company Foundation, Massachusetts Department of Public Health

Richard T. Ellison III, MD

Disclosures

Consult/Advisory BoardAcurx Pharmaceuticals, LLC;

Grant/Research SupportDoctors Company Foundation, Massachusetts Department of Public Health

How Effective Are IV Catheter Disinfection Caps?

Topics

Reviewing Author