JCOM Paid Subscribers LOG IN user name: password:   Forgot password?		J Clin Outcomes Manage  2009 Nov;16(11):509-513 Daily bathing with chlorhexidine in the ICU to prevent central line-associated bloodstream infections Holder C, Zellinger M Abstract Objective: To describe a quality initiative to reduce central line–associated bloodstream infections (BSIs) and acquisition of multidrug-resistant organisms by using chlorhexidine wipes for daily bathing of intensive care unit patients. Methods: Staff nurses developed a bathing procedure that identified bathing technique, frequency, compatibility with other products, contraindications, and required documentation. An education process for peers, patients, and family members was implemented. Results: BSI rates decreased from 3.6/1000 patient days to 1/1000 patient days 6 months after implementation of the chlorhexidine bath procedure. The rate of MRSA/VRE colonization was 3.6/1000 patient days prior to the implementation of the chlorhexidine daily baths and was reduced to 1/1000 patient days following implementation. Conclusion: The use of chlorhexidine baths reduced BSIs and resistant organism acquisition rates at our hospital. Reports from the Field Free Download Search the Turner White index to find abstracts of articles published in JCOM.
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