Effect of Infection Control Link Nurse Activity on Central Line Associated Bloodstream Infection in Intensive Care Unit

Background: Controlling healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) has become increasingly critical owing to the emergence of antimicrobial-resistant organisms, frequent use of invasive devices, and an aging population.However, limited infection control staff often hinders comprehensive surveillance and education.We evaluated the efficacy of implementing an infection control link Nurse (ICLN) program in reducing central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs).Methods: Three nurses from the medical intensive care unit of a tertiary teaching hospital were appointed as ICLNs and participated in seven structured training sessions.The ICLNs then delivered regular education and provided real-time feedback.ICU nurses' knowledge of HAI prevention and incidence of central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) were measured before and after ICLN appointment.Results: Sixty of 81 ICU nurses were enrolled, and mean knowledge scores significantly improved from 77.0 to 83.4 (P<0.0001) after ICLN appointment.CLABSI rates declined from 4.97 to 0.97 per 1,000 device-days following the intervention (P<0.0001).Conclusion: Implementation of an ICLN system in the ICU significantly enhanced nurses' knowledge of infection control and reduced CLABSI incidence.These findings support the ICLN model as a cost-effective and sustainable strategy to strengthen infection prevention in resource-limited healthcare settings.