Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) result in thousands of deaths each year and billions of dollars in added costs to the U.S. healthcare system, yet these infections are preventable.                                        cdc.gov

It’s scary to think about, but people can get sick from infections they get in the hospital. Even the safest hospitals in the country face safety concerns about infections that are spread in the hospital. In fact, 1 in every 20 patients gets a hospital-acquired infection. Central line infections, which are caused by germs that come into contact with an intravenous catheter, are among the most dangerous infections people can get in the hospital setting.

Fortunately, science is on our side. Lots of research has gone into figuring out how to reduce hospital-acquired infections. Organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and the Solutions for Patient Safety are working hard to provide the information and research needed to stop the spread of these infections in the hospital setting. Thousands of lives are saved through safer practices.

In addition to the efforts of these large organizations, patients and their families and visitors can help to make hospitals safer. By following the recommendations of health promoting organizations, patients can participate in excellent health care and improved health outcomes.

For children’s books that help children understand the importance of reducing the risk of hospital-acquired infections, visit supersafekidsbooks.com. Titles including Central Line Safety for Kids are available in English and Spanish.

Source: Centers for Disease Control
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