Catheter-related infections.

The recent study on “catheter-related infections” is interesting.[1] Gahlot et al. noted that “catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) is the commonest cause of nosocomial bacteremia[1]” and “institution of continuous quality improvement programs, education, and training of health care workers, and adherence to standardized protocols for insertion and maintenance of intravascular catheters significantly reduced the incidence of catheter-related infections and represent the most important preventive measures.[1]” Whether the CRBSI is the commonest cause of nosocomial bacteremia should be discussed. According to a recent report by Orosi, the most common kind of nosocomial bacteremia is relating to respiratory tract infection not blood stream infection.[2] To manage CRBSI is very important. Good prevention and control program for this problem must be implemented in each hospital.[3] Nevertheless, the standard protocols in use and quality accreditation system should be reassured for the effectiveness. Helmick et al. recently noted that “current mandated self-reported compliance and audit measures” are poorly correlated with “decreased catheter-related bloodstream infection.[4]”