Catheter-related infections in pediatric parenteral nutrition in intensive care unit

Abstract

Central venous catheters are an essential technique in the treatment of critically ill children. One of their most frequent use is the providing of parenteral nutrition as well as the administration of fluids, drugs, and blood products. Several complications may occur during cannulation and maintenance of these devices, including catheter-related infection. Prevention is the main weapon against this iatrogenic side effect; for this reason, some projects and guidelines have been developed in order to decrease this type of infection. Definition, incidence, prevention, and treatment of catheterrelated bloodstream infection are focused on the following chapter.