Efficacy of chlorhexidine patches on central line-associated bloodstream infections in children

Background Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) are important hospital-acquired infections. Chlorhexidine-impregnated dressings (also known as chlorhexidine patches, CHG patches) are reported to decrease CLABSIs in adults. This study aims to determine the efficacy of CHG patches in reducing CLABSIs in children. Methods An open-label randomized controlled trial was conducted in children aged 2 months to 18 years, requiring a short-term catheter. Patients were randomized into two groups, allocated to receive CHG patches or standard transparent dressings. Care of the catheter was in accordance with Asia Pacific Society of Infection Control (APSIC) recommendations. Central-line-associated bloodstream infections were defined using National Healthcare Safety Network surveillance criteria. Results From April 2017 to April 2018, 192 children were enrolled. There were 108 CHG patch catheters and 101 standard dressing catheters, contributing to 3,113 catheter days. The median duration of catheter dwelling was 13 days, with an interquartile range (IQR) of 8-20 days. Half were placed at the jugular vein and 22% at the femoral vein. There were 23 CLABSI events. Incidence rates for CHG patches and standard dressings were 7.98 (95% confidence interval (CI), 4.25-13.65) and 6.74 (95% CI, 3.23-12.39) per 1,000 catheter days, respectively (incidence rate ratio 1.18; 95% CI, 0.52-2.70). The CLABSI pathogens were 15 Gram-negative bacteria, six Gram-positive bacteria, and twoCandidaorganisms. Catheter colonization of CHG patches and standard dressings were 2.02 (95% CI, 0.42-5.91) and 3.07 (95% CI, 1.00-7.16) per 1,000 catheter days, respectively. Only local adverse effects occurred in 6.8% of the participants. Conclusions In our setting, there was no difference in CLABSI rates when the chlorhexidine patch dressings were compared with the standard transparent dressings. Strengthening of CLABSI prevention bundles is mandatory.