Surveillance of catheter-related bacteremia in VINCat program

Abstract

Background

Catheter-related bacteremia (CRB) is one of the most frequent infections acquired during hospitalization. We summarize the results of CRB surveillance conducted by the Catalan Program of Surveillance of Nosocomial Infections (VINCat) over the past fifteen years.

Methods

All episodes of hospital-acquired CRB diagnosed in the 55 Catalan hospitals participating in the VINCat program (2008–2023) were recorded. Annual incidence rates per 1000 patient-days were calculated. Analyses were stratified into three relevant five-year periods: 2008–2012, 2013–2017, and 2018–2022. Incidence rate ratios (IRRs) were used to compare infection rates.

Results

During the study period, 10,212 episodes of nosocomial CRB were diagnosed. The global incidence rate was 0.21 episodes per 1000 patient-days (intensive care units (ICUs): 1.13; medical wards: 0.16; surgical wards: 0.15). Gram-positive bacteria caused 68.3% of the episodes. The incidence rate of CRB acquired in ICUs and that of CRB associated with central venous catheters decreased during the study period, while episodes associated with peripheral venous catheters (PVCs) and peripherally-inserted central venous catheters (PICVCs) significantly increased (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The current study underscores the necessity for interventional programs targeting PVCs, particularly in non-ICU wards.