Assessment of Critical Care Nurses' Knowledge on Preventing Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections

Nosocomial infections remain a major cause of morbidity and mortality among hospitalized patients, affecting 5% to 15% of admissions and leading to complications in 25% to 50% of ICU patients. Among risk factors, intravascular devices, particularly central venous catheters (CVCs), are highly significant contributors to these infections. Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) represent a critical subset of healthcare-associated infections, with ICU patients experiencing high incidence, mortality rates of approximately 18%, prolonged hospital stays, and substantial financial burdens. The National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN), developed by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, provides standardized definitions and surveillance tools to monitor CLABSI, identify potential infection sources, and implement preventive strategies. Evidence indicates that adherence to established guidelines, such as those recommended by the Joint Commission National Patient Safety Goals, can significantly reduce CLABSI incidence. Despite these measures, CLABSI diagnosis remains challenging due to the absence of local infection signs and the presence of nonspecific systemic manifestations such as fever, chills, or hypotension. Assessing the knowledge of critical care nurses regarding CLABSI prevention is essential, as frontline healthcare providers play a pivotal role in implementing evidence-based practices and reducing patient risk. This study aims to evaluate critical care nurses’ awareness and understanding of CLABSI prevention measures to inform targeted educational interventions and enhance patient safety outcomes.