Are hospitalized patients aware of the risks and consequences of central line-associated bloodstream infections?

We surveyed patients to determine awareness and knowledge regarding risks and consequences of a central line and found that most patients were aware of the signs and symptoms and the negative outcomes of central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI). Forty percent thought that education regarding CLABSI could be improved, 22% could not recall discussing risks of infection of a central line with a health care worker, and only 46% of patients recalled receiving an informational flyer in the hospital regarding CLABSI. Our results suggest that efforts to involve and engage patients in interventions for CLABSI prevention are likely to be of benefit. Published by Elsevier Inc. on behalf of the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc.