The Effectiveness of Daily Chlorhexidine Gluconate Bathing in Reducing Central-Line Associated Bloodstream Infections

Advisor(s)

Angela Spallinger

Confirmation

1

Document Type

Poster

Location

ONU McIntosh Center; Activities Room

Start Date

24-4-2026 11:00 AM

End Date

24-4-2026 11:50 AM

Abstract

Problem: Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) are significant healthcare-associated complications in the intensive care unit (ICU) that lead to increased patient morbidity, mortality, and an average cost exceeding $45,000 per occurrence. Despite standard hygiene protocols, the migration of bacteria into the catheter insertion site remains a primary source of infection for critically ill patients.

Purpose: The purpose of this project is to determine if the implementation of a standardized daily bathing protocol using 2% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG)-impregnated cloths is more effective than traditional soap and water bathing in reducing CLABSI incidence rates among adult ICU patients over a six-month period.

Methods: This project utilizes a quasi-experimental design to evaluate the impact of antiseptic intervention within a clinical setting. The study population consists of adult patients (ages 18+) admitted to a high-acuity ICU who require central venous access. To compare outcomes, a convenience sampling method is used to transition a designated unit (ICU) from traditional soap-and-water hygiene to a standardized daily regimen using 2% CHG-impregnated cloths. The procedure emphasizes a 'no-rinse' technique to maintain the antimicrobial barrier on the skin.

Evaluation: The evaluation will be conducted through a longitudinal review of clinical data over a twelve-month period, specifically measuring CLABSI incidence density per 1,000 patient-days. CLABSI incidence six months prior to implementation will be compared to six months following the transition to CHG bathing. The transition will be supported by weekly nursing audits to verify protocol compliance and skin safety.

Conclusion: It is anticipated that the transition to a standardized 2% CHG bathing protocol will significantly decrease CLABSI rates. This project makes a direct difference in nursing practice by replacing basin-bathing methods with evidence-based antiseptic technology. The clinical implications include improved patient safety, reduced length of stay in the ICU, and a substantial decrease in hospital-acquired infection costs.

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Apr 24th, 11:00 AM Apr 24th, 11:50 AM

The Effectiveness of Daily Chlorhexidine Gluconate Bathing in Reducing Central-Line Associated Bloodstream Infections

ONU McIntosh Center; Activities Room

Problem: Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) are significant healthcare-associated complications in the intensive care unit (ICU) that lead to increased patient morbidity, mortality, and an average cost exceeding $45,000 per occurrence. Despite standard hygiene protocols, the migration of bacteria into the catheter insertion site remains a primary source of infection for critically ill patients.

Purpose: The purpose of this project is to determine if the implementation of a standardized daily bathing protocol using 2% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG)-impregnated cloths is more effective than traditional soap and water bathing in reducing CLABSI incidence rates among adult ICU patients over a six-month period.

Methods: This project utilizes a quasi-experimental design to evaluate the impact of antiseptic intervention within a clinical setting. The study population consists of adult patients (ages 18+) admitted to a high-acuity ICU who require central venous access. To compare outcomes, a convenience sampling method is used to transition a designated unit (ICU) from traditional soap-and-water hygiene to a standardized daily regimen using 2% CHG-impregnated cloths. The procedure emphasizes a 'no-rinse' technique to maintain the antimicrobial barrier on the skin.

Evaluation: The evaluation will be conducted through a longitudinal review of clinical data over a twelve-month period, specifically measuring CLABSI incidence density per 1,000 patient-days. CLABSI incidence six months prior to implementation will be compared to six months following the transition to CHG bathing. The transition will be supported by weekly nursing audits to verify protocol compliance and skin safety.

Conclusion: It is anticipated that the transition to a standardized 2% CHG bathing protocol will significantly decrease CLABSI rates. This project makes a direct difference in nursing practice by replacing basin-bathing methods with evidence-based antiseptic technology. The clinical implications include improved patient safety, reduced length of stay in the ICU, and a substantial decrease in hospital-acquired infection costs.