ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Catheter related blood stream infection (CRBSI) makes up a significant proportion of Hospital acquired infection and increases the morbidity and mortality of those affected. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: Primary aim was to study the clinical outcomes of patients with suspected Catheter Related Blood Stream Infection (CRBSI). RESULTS: Of the 150 participants suspected of having CRBSI, 100(67%) had CRBSI, 26(16%) patients were colonizers and 24(17%) patients had BSI from another source. Gram negative microbes were predominant. Clinical outcomes were studied with respect to mortality, complications and length of hospital stay. CRBSI participants had a significantly prolonged hospital stay. However no specific factors related to the host or the pathogen influenced this outcome. CONCLUSION: CRBSI prolongs the hospital stay for patients who would have otherwise been discharged, hence increases the burden on hospital and human resources.
