The effect of heparin in peripheral intravenous nutrition via a fine-bore midline: a randomised double-blind controlled trial.

Background And Aims: Peripheral intravenous nutrition (PIVN) delivered via a finebore midline offers a viable alternative to central venous feeding. The major complication is the onset of peripheral vein thrombophlebitis (PVT). Feed additives such as heparin and hydrocortisone have been advocated in its prevention.

In situ diagnosis of intravascular catheter-related bloodstream infection: a comparison of quantitative culture, differential time to positivity, and endoluminal brushing.

Objective: To compare the accuracy of three techniques that do not require central venous catheter removal to diagnose catheter-related bloodstream infection.

Design: Prospective cohort study of central venous catheters from suspected cases of catheter-related bloodstream infection.

Setting: University teaching hospital.

The routine microbiological screening of central venous catheters in home parenteral nutrition patients.

Background & Aims: Catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) is a major complication for patients receiving home parenteral nutrition (HTPN). Endoluminal sampling techniques allow the diagnosis of CRBSI without catheter removal and may allow the screening of asymptomatic patients.

Methods: Over a 5-year period, patients receiving HTPN were offered screening on a 3 monthly basis.

Each lumen is a potential source of central venous catheter-related bloodstream infection.

Objective: To determine the relative rates of microbial colonization of individual lumens in triple-lumen central venous catheters (CVCs) and calculate the chance of detecting catheter-related blood stream infection (CRBSI) if only one lumen is sampled.

Design: Prospective evaluation of CVCs from suspected and nonsuspected CRBSI cases.

Setting: University teaching hospital.