The Effectiveness of Chlorhexidine Gluconate on Prevention of Catheter-Related Bloodstream Infections

Plain-language summary

Catheter-related bloodstream infections are associated with increased mortality, morbidity, and length of hospital stay. The incidence has decreased significantly with the strict implementation of preventive bundle cares and checklists in intensive care units. Bathing with solutions containing chlorhexidine has been included in preventive strategies in recent years. Although some studies have shown that chlorhexidine bathing reduces the frequency of hospital-associated infections, there are important differences in management of practice and adherence to practice in different facilities. The majority of the studies conducted include adult patients. According to the CDC guidelines, chlorhexidine bathing is recommended for children over 2 months of age to prevent catheter-related bloodstream infection. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of daily bathing with 2% chlorhexidine gluconate solution in preventing catheter-related bloodstream infections in pediatric patients with temporary central venous catheters.

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