Prevention of central venous catheter-related infections: a retrospective single-center study comparing two different periods

Objective: To evaluate whether the implementation of evidence-based central venous catheter (CVC) insertion and maintenance bundles reduced the incidence of central line–associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI). Study design: This retrospective single-center study included all CVCs placed and subsequently removed as part of routine care in the NICU of Modena between January 1, 2022, and December 31, 2024. In March 2023, our NICU introduced new insertion and maintenance bundles, and CLABSI rates were compared before and after their implementation. Results: Following the introduction of the bundles, the odds of developing complications were significantly reduced compared to the pre-intervention period (OR=0.30, 95% CI= 0.10-0.87 p = 0.028), corresponding to an approximate 70% decrease in the likelihood of CLABSI. Conclusions: The adoption of standardized insertion and maintenance bundles was associated with a marked reduction in CLABSI rates, highlighting their effectiveness as a preventive strategy in the neonatal intensive care setting.