Central Venous Catheters
A joint Project Between Caregivers/Parents and Nurses to Improve Care of Central Venous Catheters (CVC) at Home
Researcher: Paula Mahon, RN DHealth | Clinical Nurse Research Scientist
Co-Investigators: Lisa Jacques, RN; Michelle Chang, RN; Jun Chen Collet, BMed MSc
Institution: British Columbia Children’s Hospital | Vancouver, British Columbia Canada
Grant Type: APHON/CureSearch Dr. Rachel Booth Award in Nursing Research
Year Awarded: 2017
Abstract
At British Columbia’s Children’s Hospital (BCCH) increased numbers of pediatric patients are being treat as outpatients for Haematological/Oncological diseases. As out-patients, these children are discharged home with Central Venous Catheters (CVC’s) in place. These lines can be significant source of infection for the patient if not handle with great care. Family’s/carers are educated before they are discharged on the care and maintenance of these lines. Yet, we continue to see central line associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) in these children. CLABSI are a significant source of morbidity and mortality for patients and they can result in readmission and/or prolonged hospitalization. Not only is there a danger to the child but these line infections can cause our healthcare system thousands of dollars a year. It is estimated the cost of CLABSIs is
up to $70 000 (US) for children with cancer and 21 extra days in hospital per patient.
In this research project, we poll parents who have been discharged for their opinion on the education they received. We then incorporate their ideas/suggestions and streamline the education all parents receive. We will develop a video to ensure consistence education and using an Experience-based Co-design (EBCD) methodology we evaluate our educational program for user satisfaction. In association with our Infection control department (IC) we will follow line infection rates in patients with central lines discharged to home and evaluate if our improved educational program has an impact on reducing CLABSI. The aim of this project is to improve and enhance the education care-givers/parents receive in hospital to allow them to give the best care possible for CVC’s at home and ultimately to reduce CVC infection rates.