Intravascular catheter-related infections

Hospital-acqulred catheter-related infections constitute a serious health problem and are associated with high morbidity, mortality and nosocomial costs. This article is focused in epidemiology, microbiology, pathogenesis and general recommendations for prevention of catheter-related infections. Due to the fact that many o these infections may be preventable, education of health care providers and strict adherence to established infection control practices are critical.

Keywords: Nosocomial infections, intravascular catheters