Is central line type an independent risk factor of central line-associated bloodstream infection in a neonatal intensive care unit population? Experiences at a pediatric hospital in South Texas.

Background: Central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) causes significant harm in neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) patients. However, data regarding risk factors and prevention strategies for CLABSI in NICU patients is limited.

Objective: To examine risk factors for CLABSI in a NICU population, with particular interest in central line type and site placement.

A Free Mobile Application Improves the Efficiency of Hand Hygiene Observation Collection: Experiences at a Pediatric Hospital in South Texas.

Hand hygiene (HH) is the most important means of reducing hospital-acquired infections. However, compliance at health care facilities remains deficient. A process improvement study was conducted at a 191-bed, pediatric hospital in South Texas evaluating a free mobile application for HH surveillance, compared to traditional pen-and-paper methods.