Increased Bloodstream Infection Rates in Surgical Patients Associated with Variation from Recommended Use and Care Following Implementation of a Needleless Device

Abstract

We observed a significant increase in the BSI rate in two surgical units, SICU and OTU, associated with introduction of a needleless device. This increase occurred shortly after the needleless device was implemented and was associated with nurses' unfamiliarity with the device, and needless-device use and care practices different from the manufacturer's recommendations.