Question
According to the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) and CDC surveillance guidelines, what is the precise operational definition and strict time-based parameter required to classify a primary bloodstream infection as a true Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infection (CLABSI)?
Tap card to flipAnswer
Operational Definition & Parameter: A CLABSI is defined as a primary, laboratory-confirmed bloodstream infection (LCBI) where an eligible central venous access device (CVC, PICC, umbilical line, or hemodialysis catheter) was in place for greater than 48 hours on the date of the infection event, AND the infection is not secondary to a documented localized infection at another anatomical site. If the central line was removed within the 48 hours prior to the positive blood culture being drawn, the infection is still classified and counted as a healthcare-acquired CLABSI for surveillance metrics.
Tap card to flip back