Increase in the frequency of catheter-related bloodstream infections during the COVID-19 pandemic: a plea for control. (January 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Pérez-Granda, M.J.; Carrillo, C.S.; Rabadán, P.M.; Valerio, M.; Olmedo, M.; Muñoz, P.; Bouza, E.
• Is Part Of: Journal of hospital infection. Volume 119(2022)
• Page Start: 149
• Page End: 154
• Publication Date: 2022-01
• Subjects: COVID-19 -- Catheter-related bloodstream infections -- Infection control -- Nosocomial infections -- COVID-19 secondary infections; Cross infection -- Periodicals; Cross infection -- Prevention -- Periodicals; Nosocomial infections -- Periodicals; Nosocomial infections -- Prevention -- Periodicals; Cross Infection -- Periodicals; Cross Infection -- prevention & control -- Periodicals; Infection Control -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 614.44
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2021.09.020
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0195-6701

Abstract

Summary: Background: The incidence of nosocomial infections including ventilator-associated pneumonia and bacteraemia has been described during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, information regarding the impact of COVID-19 on the incidence of catheter-related bloodstream infections (CR-BSIs) is very limited. Aim: To evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in the evolution of CR-BSIs in a large hospital. Methods: This was a retrospective study comparing the incidence, aetiology and outcome of CR-BSIs during the months of March to May 2019 (pre-pandemic) and 2020 (during the pandemic). Findings: The number of patients with one or more CR-BSIs in 2019 and 2020 were 23 and 58, respectively (1.89 vs 5.53/1000 admissions); P <0.001. Median time from catheter implantation to demonstration of CR-BSI was 27.5 days (range 11.75–126.00 days) in the 2019 cases and 16.0 days (range 11.00–23.50 days) in the 2020 population ( P =0.032). Conclusions: A dramatic increase of CR-BSIs was found during the COVID-19 pandemic. Reinforcement of classic and new preventive measures is necessary.