Reducing central line associated bacteraemia in intensive care units using low cost strategies

Methods 36 adult ICUs in New South Wales, Australia implemented aseptic insertion bundles over 18-months. Patient bundle included 2% alcoholic chlorhexidine preparation of insertion site, full sterile sheet drape, line position checked with x-ray and/or transducer. Physician bundle included hand hygiene, hat, mask, eyewear, sterile gloves/gown, maintain sterile technique. The first 12month roll-out period was used to train all ICU physicians to implement the bundles and collect data. 10,575 lines inserted were followed until discharged from ICU. CLAB rates and bundle compliance rates were calculated quarterly and survival analysis established the CLAB-free line-day period.