A bundled simulation-based training in a medical intensive care unit reduced the central line-associated bloodstream infection rate by 85.3 percent and increased infection control compliance to 100 percent compliance in a study in American Journal of Infection Control.
Researchers introduced a simulation-based training intervention consisting of training for central line insertion for ICU patients, using standardized and all-inclusive catheter kits and electronic medical record-guided documentation.
Following the training intervention, EMR-based documentation increased from 48 percent to 100 percent. Documented compliance with infection control protocol compliance — hand hygiene, barrier precautions and chlorhexidine use — increased from between 65 and 85 percent to 100 percent. Additionally, the CLABSI rate in the MICU fell from an average of 2.72 infections per 1,000 catheter-days to 0.40 infections per 1,000 catheter-days.
However, CLABSI rates did not significantly differ in the surgical ICU following intervention.
Researchers estimate the reduced CLABSI rates reduced healthcare costs by approximately $1.7 million.
They concluded this multi-layered simulation-based training resulted in increased documentation and infection control compliance as well as a significant CLABSI reduction. They suggest senior physicians supervising bedside practice should undergo refresher training to achieve the maximum benefit of the intervention.
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