PSJMCOncology

  Chlorhexidine Gluconate Baths: Supporting Daily Use to Reduce Central Line–Associated Bloodstream Infections Affecting Immunocompromised Patients Background : Chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) has a broad-spectrum antimicrobial property that has proven to be effective in prolonging skin antisepsis and decreasing pathogens often seen in oncology units. Objectives: The aim was to reduce the incidence of central line–associated bloodstream infections in a hematology-oncology unit through the staff’s continued adherence to the institution’s protocol for CHG baths with wipes, and to identify barriers and the degree to which they interfered with optimal use of the CHG wipes. Methods: The project focused on supporting staff and nurses by providing education and training on current practices to staff and patients, and identifying barriers. Direct observation and chart audits were the approach chosen to implement the project. Findings : For the project study period, the unit had three nonpre...

Central  Line Patency: Management With Normal Saline Flushes for Adult Patients With Cancer  Background:  Central venous catheter (CVC) maintenance is critical in administering chemotherapy, transfusions, and high-frequency laboratory draws. Although normal saline (NS) flushes have been associated with similar incidences of irreversible port occlusions as heparin among adult patients with cancer and ports, additional research is needed regarding NS efficacy in other central line maintenance within large populations with cancer. Objectives:  The aim of this study was to analyze changes in reported CVC line patency via tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) administration rates in ports and other central lines because of an institutional switch from heparin to NS as preferred flushes in adult ambulatory patients with cancer. Methods:  Retrospective data were collected from patients with ports (3,706 prepolicy, 3,402 postpolicy) and nonport CVCs (816 prepolicy, 694 pos...