Preventing infections due to intravascular catheters in burn victims

Venous catheters are associated with severe complications that present high morbidity and mortality rates. The objective of this study was to identify the available scientific evidence regarding nursing interventions for the prevention of infections related to the presence of central or peripheral venous catheters in burn patients. We performed a search of the PubMed, Latin American and Caribbean Center on Health Sciences Information and Cochrane databases from March 2008 to March 2009. There is only limited evidence regarding interventions that may have a positive impact in preventing venous catheter-related infection in burn victims. We recommend the interpretation of the CDC guidelines as a basis to organize protocols to prevent catheter-related infection in burns.