Which statement best describes a method to prevent central line infections?

Which statement best describes a method to prevent central line infections?

• A. Remove the line when no longer indicated
• B. Schedule routine line replacement every 48 hours
• C. Use no barrier precautions during insertion
• D. Delay removing line to prevent repeated insertions

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that infection risk from a central line is driven by how long the line stays in place. Each day a catheter remains in situ adds opportunity for bacteria to enter at the insertion site or through the catheter hub, potentially causing a bloodstream infection. Therefore removing the line as soon as it is no longer needed minimizes exposure and lowers infection risk. Scheduling routine replacements is not necessary and can increase risk by introducing contamination and tissue trauma. Skipping barrier precautions or delaying removal to avoid another insertion would only raise the chance of infection. In neonatal care, this principle is supported by strict aseptic technique during insertion and maintenance, but the single most effective preventive step is removing the central line promptly when it’s no longer indicated.

The main idea is that infection risk from a central line is driven by how long the line stays in place. Each day a catheter remains in situ adds opportunity for bacteria to enter at the insertion site or through the catheter hub, potentially causing a bloodstream infection. Therefore removing the line as soon as it is no longer needed minimizes exposure and lowers infection risk. Scheduling routine replacements is not necessary and can increase risk by introducing contamination and tissue trauma. Skipping barrier precautions or delaying removal to avoid another insertion would only raise the chance of infection. In neonatal care, this principle is supported by strict aseptic technique during insertion and maintenance, but the single most effective preventive step is removing the central line promptly when it’s no longer indicated.