Electronic health record-based central line maintenance documentation
Abstract:
Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) are a significant concern in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs), leading to increased morbidity and limited treatment options. Electronic health record (EHR)-based documentation for monitoring CLABSIs may enhance bundle compliance and reduce infection rates. However, data in pediatric settings are limited.This study evaluated the impact of transitioning from paper-based to EHR-based documentation for central line maintenance on CLABSI rates in intensive care units (ICUs).A retrospective cohort study was conducted between the paper-based period and EHR-based period in the neonatal (NICU), pediatric surgery (PSICU), and pediatric (PICU) ICUs. CLABSI prevention bundle compliance was assessed using manual checklists in the paper-based period and EHR-based documentation in the EHR-based period. CLABSI rates were calculated per 1,000 catheter-days, and bundle adherence was tracked using manual checklists or EHR-based documentation.Among 3,278 patients, overall CLABSI rates decreased from 5.32 to 2.46 per 1,000 catheter-days (p = 0.008). In the NICU, rates dropped from 6.20 to 2.13 (p = 0.028); in the PSICU, from 1.45 to 0; and in the PICU, from 5.38 to 3.24 per 1,000 catheter-days (p > 0.05).Transitioning to EHR-based documentation for central line maintenance significantly reduced CLABSI rates across PICUs, particularly in the NICU. EHR systems improve compliance monitoring, promote standardization, and represent an effective tool for strengthening infection prevention in pediatric critical care.
Reference:
Devrim İ, Ozbakir H, Oruc Y, Dinc C, Yilman O, Can M, Ozbay T, Turgut N, Birgili T, Ozdemir Pilavci G, Karaarslan U, Sencan A, Agin H. The Effect of Electronic Health Record-Based Central Line Maintenance Documentation on CLABSI Rates across Intensive Care Units at a Pediatric Hospital. Appl Clin Inform. 2026 Mar;17(2):183-189. doi: 10.1055/a-2838-8190. Epub 2026 Mar 31. PMID: 41916522; PMCID: PMC13038349.