Signs of a catheter infection
A catheter infection can be local (at the exit site) or in the blood; the second needs urgent treatment.
01Short answer
02Simple explanation
Topic. signs of a catheter infection.
Ask. Your team will explain your own situation.
Write down. Your questions.
Overview. The article “Catheters, PICC lines and ports”.
03Scientific explanation
Blood culture: identifies the germ and the right antibiotic.
Neutropenia: with low white cells, redness may be faint.
04What happens in the body?
Signs of a catheter infection
A local infection shows redness, pain or discharge. A bloodstream infection typically brings fever and chills, especially right after the line is flushed. The team takes blood cultures from the line and a vein and starts antibiotics; sometimes the catheter is removed.
In more detail
Blood culture: identifies the germ and the right antibiotic. Neutropenia: with low white cells, redness may be faint.
The overview
This article goes deep into one subject. For the bigger picture, see “Catheters, PICC lines and ports”.
05Signs of a catheter infection: the steps
Four steps.
06Signs
| Sign | What it may be | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Redness at the exit site | Local infection | Tell your team |
| Chills after flushing | Bloodstream infection | Contact your team now |
| Temperature 38 °C or above | Infection | Contact your team now |
07Key terms
- Blood culture
- A test for germs in the blood.
- Sepsis
- A severe whole-body reaction to infection.
08Key points
- Everyone’s plan is individual.
- Write down and bring your questions.
- Report new symptoms early.
- Do not change medicines yourself.
- For food, see “Handwashing: the simplest protection” and “Eggs and dairy: safe choices”.
- Overview: “Catheters, PICC lines and ports”.
09Frequently asked questions
Will the line be removed?
Sometimes; it depends on the germ and your condition.
Is this the same for everyone?
No; the plan depends on the type of leukaemia and your situation.
Where is the overview?
In the article “Catheters, PICC lines and ports”.
10Questions for your doctor
Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.
Will the line be removed?
Is this the same for everyone?
Where is the overview?
12Sources
- National Cancer Institute (NCI). Infection and Neutropenia during Cancer Treatment
- MedlinePlus. Central venous catheters – ports
- National Cancer Institute (NCI). Definition of central venous catheter – NCI Dictionary
- ICUsteps. Guide to intensive care: effects on your body
- MedlinePlus. Herbal Medicine
- MedlinePlus. Dietary Supplements
- MedlinePlus. Heart Failure
- MedlinePlus. High Blood Pressure
- National Cancer Institute (NCI). Support for Caregivers of Cancer Patients
- American Cancer Society. Caregivers and Family