Reducing peripheral intravenous catheter related blood stream infections: findings from a quality improvement audit of taskforce strategies

<i>Background:</i> Peripheral intravenous indwelling catheters (PIVC) are the most frequently used medical device in acute care settings. Approximately 80% of patients require the insertion of at least one PIVC at some point during their hospital stay. PIVC associated bloodstream infections are preventable and account for almost 40% of all hospital acquired bloodstream related infections.<i>Methods:</i> A taskforce was convened to plan, develop and implement hospital-wide, evidence-based practice approaches, aligned with clinical care standards, to reduce the incidence of PIVC related infection. A prospective observational audit was designed to evaluate taskforce efficacy. The primary aim of the audit was to determine the effectiveness of the taskforce in reducing the incidence of PIVC-related infection.<i>Results:</i> The PIVC-related bloodstream infection rate per 10,000 occupied bed days fell below the expected benchmark from the initial implementation of taskforce strategies. In the 12 months following taskforce strategy implementation there were 7 (58.3%) months in which there were no infections reported.<i>Conclusion:</i> Successful infection prevention programs require a multitude of initiatives and processes. Transparency in governance and leadership support for implementing prevention strategies in crucial as contextual factors impact barriers and facilitators for the uptake and implementation of behaviour change initiatives.