Integrating Evidence‐Based Practice With PDSA Methodology for the Reduction of Central Line Associated Blood Stream Infection in Intensive Care Unit

ABSTRACT

Background

Preventing central line associated bloodstream infections is feasible; although numerous hospitals continue to face challenges in achieving this important patient safety goal.

Aim

The aim of this project was to reduce the incidence of central line associated bloodstream infections in the intensive care unit.

Methods

This evidence-based practice quality improvement project was conducted in the general intensive care unit with 35 beds in King Abdullah Medical City in response to an increase in reported central line associated bloodstream infections cases. A searchable clinical question was formulated, and the relevant literature was reviewed and critically appraised to identify effective prevention strategies. Multimodal Interventions were then implemented and evaluated. The Plan, Do, Study, Act methodology was integrated with an evidence-based practice model to enhance the effectiveness, sustainability, and overall quality of the initiatives.

Results

Central line associated bloodstream infection rates decreased from 1.37 to 0.62 per 1000 central line days in the intensive care unit following implementation of the interventions. Moreover, the project generated a total cost savings of $244,201 USD (915,756 SAR), reflecting reduced costs associated with central line associated bloodstream infection cases over the subsequent 18 months.

Linking Evidence to Action

Implementation of multimodal interventions is essential to decrease central line associated bloodstream infection rate in intensive care units.