News: CDC reports 50% drop in CLABSIs since 2008

Between 2008 and 2016, hospitals reduced the rate of central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) by 50%, according to a report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The progress, according to the report, reflects “outstanding collaborative efforts among healthcare providers, supported by national prevention efforts.”

The catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) rate was also under scrutiny with less impressive results than with CLABSI.

For the beginning years of study (2008-2014), the rates remained fairly steady and even increased from year to year on occasion. Starting in 2015, however, there were marked declines in the rates, especially for non-ICU locations, according to the report. ICUs have begun to see a decline as well, though slower.

The CDC suggests the best way to combat the CAUTI rates is to practice safer and reduced urinary catheter use in both ICUs and in wards.

The report also details trends in surgical site infection rates, MRSA bacteremia, and clostridium difficile. All the rates have declined, pointing to a path of better quality, safer care.

But, the CDC report also includes suggestions for improving hospital-acquired infection rates even further and include resources for each type of infection covered. To read the entire report, visit the CDC’s website here.

Editor’s note: To read the AHA’s coverage of this report, click here. To read about CAUTI sequencing, click here. To read about the basics of present on admission indicators and hospital-acquired conditions, click here.