Tunnelled Central Venous Access Devices (HICC)

Introduction

Bloodstream infections associated with intravascular access devices are potentially among the most dangerous complications of healthcare that can occur, worsening the severity of the patients underlying ill health, prolonging the period of hospitalisation and increasing the cost of care. Almost 64% of patients in the UK with an intravascular device acquire a catheter related bloodstream infection (CR-BSI) (HPA 2012).

Purpose

The number of patients requiring central venous access continues to grow as the management of disease and trauma improves and life expectancy is prolonged. Hickman lines are lifelines for many patients in a wide array of circumstances, so establishing and maintaining safe, appropriate and reliable access and care for this group of patients is vital. This policy outlines measures that will be implemented to reduce the risk of infection in any adult with a Hickman lines.

Policy Details