A Case Study on Vascular Access Specialists’ Role in Infection Prevention [virtual]

At a multifacility health system, the vascular access specialty team (VAST) reports up through infection prevention and control and quality. Through collaborative efforts, the VAST has been key to lowering infection rates, including central line associated blood stream infections (CLABSIs). This reduction has been accomplished through modified education, stakeholder meetings, introduction of a de-escalation protocol, and implementation of a device-planning consult. These changes have elevated practice and lead to positive outcomes, including one facility going 12 months CLABSI-free. This unique partnership has created additional opportunities for expansion and elevation of practice. In this session, attendees will learn how to incorporate infection prevention practices into their workflow and how these practices can impact overall outcomes.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Describe the chain of infection.
  • List three key infection prevention practices that can be implemented into their workflow.
  • Discuss their role in infection prevention.
  • Verbalize how they can incorporate vascular access device planning into their program.

Contact Hours: 1
CRNI® RUs: 2

Crystal Heishman, MBA, MSN, RN, ONC, CIC, CRNI®, FAPIC

Crystal Heishman is the director of infection prevention and control at UofL Health Jewish and Heart Hospitals as well as the director of system vascular access specialties and infection prevention coordinators for disinfection/sterilization/facilities for UofL Health. She holds certifications in infection control, orthopedic nursing, and infusion nursing, and is a fellow of APIC. Crystal is active in numerous professional organizations, serving as immediate past chair of APIC's Annual Conference Committee, Emerging Infectious Disease Task Force, and as a reviewer and editorial board member for several publications. She has a diverse range of interests, including the advancement of vascular access specialties, technology/AI, and emerging infectious diseases.

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Live event: 05/20/2024 at 3:45 PM (EDT) You must register to access.
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