Central Vascular Access Devices: Current Standards and Future Implications

Background: Central venous access devices (CVADs) are crucial for various medical conditions, but pose risks, including catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSI). CRBSI increases comorbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Surveillance and evidence-based guidelines have successfully reduced CRBSI rates, although the COVID-19 pandemic has led to increased infection rates. Main body: This review explores strategies for reducing the incidence of CRBSI and examines factors contributing to variations in reported rates across developed countries. Highlighting the significant morbidity, mortality, and healthcare resource burden associated with CRBSI, the analysis delves into evidence-backed preventive measures. It discusses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on infection rates and proposes resilient strategies in response to these challenges. The review emphasises the importance of understanding CRBSI pathogenesis, patient, procedure, and device-related risk factors, and the implementation of evidence-guided algorithms and surveillance measures. Recommendations include the use of all-inclusive procedure packs, ultrasound-guided placement, daily dressing changes with antimicrobial treatment, and the use of antimicrobial locks. Conclusions: The review underscores the need for clear, concise algorithms adaptable to various healthcare settings and the scalability of infection prevention systems to ensure resilience.