Treatment Notes

Catheter removal is STRONGLY recommended for infections with Staphylococcus aureus, yeast, and Pseudomonas, as the likelihood of catheter salvage is low and the risks of metastatic complications are high.

Infected catheters should generally NOT be exchanged over a guide wire.

Catheters associated with tunnel infections CANNOT be salvaged and must be removed.

Catheter salvage can be considered in line associated bloodstream infections caused by coagulase negative staphylococci if the patient is clinically stable.

When catheter salvage is attempted, antibiotics should be given through the
infected line.

Antibiotic or ethanol lock therapy, in which an antibiotic is infused into the catheter and left in place, can be considered in the treatment of tunneled catheter infections due to less virulent pathogens such as coagulase negative staphylococci.
Infectious Diseases consult is required.

Consider Infectious Diseases consultation to discuss duration of treatment.