Device-Associated Infection Prevention Flashcards

Which is the primary central line insertion bundle element for CLABSI prevention?

Answer: Maximal sterile barrier precautions during insertion

Maximal sterile barrier precautions—cap, mask, sterile gown, sterile gloves, and large sterile drape—during CVC insertion are a core evidence-based CLABSI bundle element.

Which central venous catheter insertion site is associated with the lowest CLABSI risk in adult patients?

Answer: Subclavian vein

The subclavian site consistently has lower CLABSI rates than femoral or jugular sites due to lower bacterial skin colonization in that region.

What catheter-to-meatus care does evidence support for CAUTI prevention?

Answer: Routine perineal hygiene with soap and water during bathing

Routine cleansing with soap and water is recommended; antiseptics at the meatus do not reduce CAUTI risk and may promote resistance.

According to HICPAC guidelines, what is the single most effective CAUTI prevention strategy?

Answer: Avoiding unnecessary urinary catheter insertion and removing catheters promptly

Inserting urinary catheters only when clinically indicated and removing them at the earliest opportunity is the most evidence-supported CAUTI prevention strategy.

Which ventilator-associated event (VAE) tier is specifically associated with new infection or sepsis markers?

Answer: Infection-related Ventilator-Associated Complication (IVAC)

IVAC builds on VAC by adding evidence of infection: abnormal temperature or white blood cell count plus initiation of new antimicrobial agents for ≥4 days.

Which ventilator bundle element reduces aspiration of oropharyngeal secretions to prevent VAP?

Answer: Head-of-bed elevation to 30–45 degrees

Elevating the head of the bed to 30–45 degrees reduces passive aspiration of contaminated oropharyngeal secretions into the lower respiratory tract.