Evaluation of the Effect of Nurse-Driven Algorithm in Prevention of Central Catheter-Related Bloodstream Infections in Intensive Care Units

Abstract

BackgroundInfection control in intensive care units is important for both patients' quality of life and institutions.AimThis study was conducted to evaluate the effect of a nurse-driven algorithm in preventing central catheter-related bloodstream infections in intensive care units.MethodsThis intervention research was implemented in a training and research hospital in Turkey between July 1, 2021, and December 31, 2021. The research was carried out in 3 stages after the creation of the algorithm. The data were collected using the Descriptive Characteristics Form for Nurses, the Descriptive and Medical Characteristics Form for Patients, the algorithm knowledge test, and the Algorithm Parameters Follow-up form. After obtaining the necessary permissions for the study, consent was obtained from the nurses participating in the study. Number, percentage, Wilcoxon, Kruskal-Wallis, and Mann-Whitney U test values were used in the study.ResultsWith the algorithm, a decrease was found in the rate of infections in the intensive care units.ConclusionAs a result, it was observed that the nurse-driven, central catheter-related bloodstream infection prevention algorithm, prepared using evidence-based clinical guidelines, reduced the rates of infection. Therefore, it is recommended to use algorithm studies as a long-term guide in intensive care units.