A nurse is caring for a client with a central venous catheter (CVC) in place. Which action by the nurse is most effective in preventing central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI)?
A nurse is caring for a client with a central venous catheter (CVC) in place. Which action by the nurse is most effective in preventing central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI)?
A. Performing hand hygiene before and after any manipulation of the CVC.
[94%]
B. Monitoring the client's temperature every 4 hours.
[1%]
C. Administering prophylactic antibiotics.
[4%]
D. Ensuring the client maintains strict bed rest to prevent catheter movement.
[0%]
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Pharmacology
Lesson
Medication Administration
Client Need
Test Plan
Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies
Related Topic
Central Venous Access Devices
Item Type
Item Type
Analysis
Explanation
Choice A is correct. Proper hand hygiene is essential in preventing healthcare-associated infections, including CLABSI. Healthcare providers must perform hand hygiene before and after any manipulation of the CVC to reduce the risk of introducing pathogens into the bloodstream. This practice helps maintain a clean environment around the catheter insertion site and minimizes the potential for contamination.
Choice B is incorrect. Regular monitoring of the client's temperature is a proactive measure aimed at early detection of signs of infection, including CLABSI. However, while temperature monitoring is an essential aspect of infection surveillance, it does not directly prevent CLABSI. It should be complemented with other preventive measures, such as proper hand hygiene, to reduce the risk of infection transmission.
Choice C is incorrect. Prophylactic antibiotics may be indicated in certain clinical situations to prevent infections, but their routine use for CLABSI prevention is not recommended. Overuse of antibiotics can lead to antimicrobial resistance and adverse effects on the client's microbiome. Additionally, prophylactic antibiotics do not address the underlying risk factors for CLABSI, such as inadequate catheter care practices.
Choice D is incorrect. Strict bed rest is not recommended solely to prevent catheter movement. Immobilization can increase the risk of complications such as deep vein thrombosis and pressure ulcers. Instead, securing the CVC appropriately and providing instructions to the client on how to avoid excessive movement or manipulation of the catheter can help prevent dislodgement or accidental removal, reducing the risk of CLABSI.
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2 Key Topics

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Additional Info
✓ In addition to temperature monitoring, nurses should assess other signs of infection, such as increased heart rate, respiratory rate, and changes in mental status, which may also indicate CLABSI.
✓ CLABSIs are associated with a mortality rate ranging from 12% to 25%, highlighting the importance of early detection and prevention strategies.
✓ Studies have shown that implementing evidence-based interventions, such as catheter bundle protocols that include proper hand hygiene, chlorhexidine skin antisepsis, and catheter site care, can reduce CLABSI rates by up to 70%.
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