Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America
View all recommendations from this societyReleased October 1, 2015; Revised December 2, 2019
Avoid invasive devices (including central venous catheters, endotracheal tubes, and urinary catheters) and, if required, use them no longer than necessary. They pose a major risk for infections.
Invasive devices are often necessary for patient support; however, they are a major risk for healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). We are learning they can often be avoided and, if used, can be quickly removed with the help of clinical reminders and protocols. They should never be used for convenience.
These items are provided solely for informational purposes and are not intended as a substitute for consultation with a medical professional. Patients with any specific questions about the items on this list or their individual situation should consult their physician.
How The List Was Created
A list of approximately 40 potential Choosing Wisely recommendations were collected from members of the SHEA Guidelines, Public Policy and Government Affairs, Antibiotic Stewardship, Education and Publications Committees. From those suggestions, a subgroup of the Guidelines Committee reviewed the list for duplicates and anonymously electronically ranked them. The top fifteen were sent to the SHEA Research Network for a separate ranking. Those that ranked in the top eight were reviewed by the Guidelines Committee for their appropriateness for the Choosing Wisely campaign, and five final recommendations were formally approved via individual member vote by the SHEA Guidelines Committee and the SHEA Board of Trustees.
For SHEA’s disclosure and conflict of interest policy, please visit www.shea-online.org.
Sources
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Marschall J, Mermel LA, Fakih M, Hadaway L, Kallen A, O’Grady NP, Pettis AM, Rupp ME, Sandora T, Maragakis LL, Yokoe DS; Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America. Strategies to prevent central line-associated bloodstream infections in acute care hospitals: 2014 update. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol. 2014 Jul;35(7):753-71.
Lo E, Nicolle LE, Coffin SE, Gould C, Maragakis LL, Meddings J, Pegues DA, Pettis AM, Saint S, Yokoe DS. Strategies to prevent catheter-associated urinary tract infections in acute care hospitals: 2014 update. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol. 2014 Sep;35 Suppl 2:S32-47.
