Cohort study of the pathogenesis and molecular epidemiology of catheter-related bloodstream infection in neonates with peripherally inserted central venous catheters.

Objective: To better define the pathogenesis of catheter-related bloodstream infection (BSI) in neonates with peripherally inserted central venous catheters (PICCs) to guide the development of more effective strategies for prevention.

Design: Prospective nested cohort study.

Setting: Level III neonatal intensive care unit in a community hospital.