Other infection due to central venous catheter Save
ICD-10 code: T80.218
Chapter: Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes
Other Infections Due to Central Venous Catheter: Understanding the Risks
A central venous catheter (CVC) is a thin, flexible tube inserted into a large vein in the body, typically in the neck or chest area. It is used to deliver medication, chemotherapy, blood products, or nutrition directly into the bloodstream. While CVCs are an important tool in modern medicine, they also come with risks, including the risk of infection.
CVC-related infections can be caused by a variety of microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses. These infections can be classified into two main types: bloodstream infections (BSIs) and local infections. BSIs occur when microorganisms enter the bloodstream through the catheter and can be life-threatening. Local infections occur when microorganisms infect the skin around the catheter insertion site or the tissue surrounding the catheter itself.
While some CVC-related infections are well-known, such as catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs), there are other infections that can occur as a result of CVC use. These include:
- Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs): These infections occur when bacteria travel from the catheter into the urinary tract, causing symptoms such as burning during urination, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, and abdominal pain.
- Catheter-related pneumonia (CRP): This infection occurs when microorganisms enter the lungs through the catheter, causing symptoms such as fever, cough, and difficulty breathing.
- Catheter-associated skin and soft tissue infections (CASSTIs): These infections occur when bacteria infect the skin around the catheter insertion site, causing redness, swelling, and pain.
Preventing CVC-related infections is crucial to patient safety. Healthcare providers can follow best practices for catheter insertion, maintenance, and removal to reduce the risk of infection. These practices may include proper hand hygiene, using sterile techniques during catheter insertion, and regularly disinfecting the catheter site.
If you have a CVC, it's important to monitor the insertion site for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or drainage. You should also let your healthcare provider know if you experience any symptoms of infection, such as fever or chills.
By understanding the risks of CVC-related infections and taking steps to prevent them, healthcare providers and patients can work together to promote patient safety and improve outcomes.