A ward at Raigmore Hospital in Inverness yesterday celebrated reaching 10,000 patient days without a blood stream infection from central lines.
The landmark was reached by the Medical High Dependency Unit (MHDU) at the north’s biggest hospital.
Central lines are life-saving and the majority of patients in intensive care or high dependency units have them placed in order to receive medicine and fluids.
However, the use of these can result in serious bloodstream infections, which occur when germs enter the blood through the central line.
The complications can cause a deterioration in a patient’s condition.Dr Grant Franklin, consultant for acute medicine for NHS Highland, explained that good technique for inserting central lines, regularly reviewing them and early removal coupled with good nursing care is why the team have been able to celebrate this milestone.
He said: “This is a great accomplishment and the team should be congratulated for their attention to detail in patient care.”
