title: Intravascular catheter-related infections. Strategies for combating this common foe.
abstract: The introduction and subsequent widespread use of intravenous catheters have presented physicians a double-edged sword. Although safe and stable vascular access has become essential to modern medical practice, bloodstream infection involving these catheters (particularly central venous catheters [CVCs]) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States. In this comprehensive review, the author discusses the most common sources of catheter-related infections, current diagnostic and treatment methods, and graded evidence-based recommendations for prevention of these infections.
authors.affiliation: Providence Portland Medical Center, OR 97213, USA. sarah.slaughter@providence.org
authors.forename: Sarah E
authors.initials: SE
authors.lastname: Slaughter
mesh_terms: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D016470:Bacteremia / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D002408:Catheters, Indwelling / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans
chemical_list: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents