What is the most important action to prevent CLABSI in a patient receiving TPN via a central line?

Performing correct sterile technique for dressing changes at the central venous catheter (CVC) site is the most important action to prevent central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) in patients receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN) via a central line.

The skin around the insertion site can act as a reservoir for bacteria, and any break in sterile technique during dressing changes can introduce pathogens into the bloodstream. By using proper sterile techniques, including hand hygiene, wearing sterile gloves, using antiseptics, and maintaining a sterile field, the risk of contamination is significantly reduced. This is critical since a central line is an open access point to the bloodstream, and maintaining strict adherence to infection control protocols is essential to prevent CLABSI.

While changing the TPN solution daily is also important for TPN management and preventing complications of TPN itself, it is the sterile technique during dressing changes that directly impacts the risk of infection at the CVC site. Limiting the number of visitors and monitoring vital signs can be beneficial in certain contexts, but they do not directly prevent infection from occurring at the catheter insertion site. Therefore, focusing on correct sterile techniques is essential for safeguarding against CLABSI in this clinical setting.