Knowledge and Compliance regarding Central Venous Catheter (CVC) Care in a Mexican Hospital

Abstract

Introduction: The use of intravascular catheters is essential for patient care, which has been also associated with nosocomial bacteremia developed in 15 to 30% of cases. This study is aimed to determine the level of knowledge and compliance among nurses on the guidelines for central venous access care. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional observational study was conducted with 67 nursing professionals caring for patients with central venous catheters. Two instruments based on the guidelines for CVC management developed by the Permanent Nurses' Committee were used for data collection. Results: The average length of employment was 7.9 years in nurses. 58.2% were classified as knowledgeable in the Knowledge category compared to 91% classified as compliant in the Compliance category. No correlation was found between knowledge and compliance (rho =-0.181, p = 0.797). Discussion: Compliance ranked in contrast to knowledge. However, the statements for both variables were related to lack of handwashing, adequate antiseptic time and catheter lumen disinfection during handling. Conclusions: The lack of knowledge and compliance with guidelines is directly related to procedural situations performed by nurses, which is why the lack of resources and supplies is not a factor in failing to follow care standardization.