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Guidelines
Pathogens
Antimicrobials
Catheter removal indicated, especially if drug-resistant GNB or Pseudomonas. If catheter required (ie. no other vascular access, line required for life-sustaining therapies), consult Infectious Diseases recommended
Consult the antibiogram data for Calgary ICUs and bloodstream isolates to guide therapy once the organism is identified.
Treat 7-14 days if uncomplicated
If catheter salvage attempted (not recommended), can attempt Antimicrobial Lock Therapy in addition to systemic therapy
Antimicrobial Lock Therapy
Antimicrobial lock therapy involves instilling a high concentration of an antibiotic or other chemical (i.e. 70% ethyl alcohol) into the catheter lumen and letting it dwell. Consultation with Infectious Diseases is recommended as no formal protocol exists in Calgary.