When a CLABSI is suspected, immediate action is required. Guidelines include:
Blood Cultures: Obtain blood cultures from both the central line and a peripheral vein before initiating antibiotic therapy. Empirical Antibiotics: Start empirical antibiotic therapy based on the most likely pathogens and adjust based on culture results. Catheter Removal: In some cases, the removal of the central line may be necessary, especially if the infection is severe or not responding to antibiotics. Antibiotic Lock Therapy: For certain infections, antibiotic lock therapy may be used to treat the catheter lumen.
