Cannula-related infections are amongst the most important nosocomial infections. In high risk patients, central venous line infections carry a significant mortality rate and a high cost. Intravascular device related blood stream infection is a significant clinical problem. Catheter-related blood stream infections (CR-BSI) can be defined as the isolation of the same organism from the colonised catheter and peripheral blood in a patient with accompanying clinical signs and symptoms of bloodstream infection (BSI) and no other apparent source of BSI.
Container / Tube
White top universal.
Collection Conditions
At least two blood cultures should be obtained by peripheral venepuncture when catheter infection is suspected. Collect specimens before starting antimicrobial therapy where possible. Cannulas should only be sent if there is evidence of infection.
Min vol 4cm length of line tip. Do not send a longer length than 6cm.
Availability
Mon to Sun. 8:30am to 5:00pm.
Send to
Microbiology Department, Centre for Laboratory Medicine, St James’s University Hospital, Beckett Street, Ä¢¹½tvÊÓƵ, LS9 7TF.
Turnaround Time
4 days.
Additional Information
An alternative method of investigating cannula-associated infection that preserves central venous access is to take samples of blood simultaneously through the cannula and from a peripheral vein. Cannula associated swabs (e.g. swabs of catheter insertion sites) may be employed as alternative specimens. However, routine investigation of cannula associated swabs from asymptomatic patients is of dubious value. This method is not validated for drain tips or epidural tips.
ID
3628