This protocol is designed to compare different methods for managing a patient in whom a central venous catheter has been inserted and to determine the optimal clinical life span of such catheters. The primary goal is to assess whether the incidence of infection differs when catheters are replaced only when clinically necessary compared to replacement on a regular (i.e., weekly) schedule. A second goal is to examine whether sequential replacement of catheters over guide wires results in a different incidence of infection than sequential replacement at new sites. The study population consists of Clinical Center patients who require central venous catheters for clinical indications; the study randomizes the frequency and manner of catheter replacement. The outcome variables are catheter insertion site infections and catheter related bacteremia or fungemia. The design of the study also will allow re- evaluation of the use of semiquantitative catheter cultures as a means of identifying catheters sufficiently colonized to be a source of septicemia. To date more than 170 patients have been randomized into this study.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
Clinical Center (CLC)
Type
Intramural Research (Z01)
Project #
1Z01CL000125-03
Application #
5201085
Study Section
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
Budget End
Support Year
3
Fiscal Year
1995
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Clinical Center
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
State
Country
United States
Zip Code