Care Bundle to Limit External Ventricular Drain Associated iNfections

Care Bundle to Limit External Ventricular Drain Associated iNfections

The aim of our study is to reduce the incidence of External ventricular drain (EVD)-related infections by implementing a bundle of measures including updated care protocoles and training of residents, nurses and nurses assistants. At Nice University Hospital, we are conducting a retrospective study showing a 22% infection rate associated with EVD. The identified pathogens are mainly transmitted by manual contact. Additionnally, high turnover among paramedical staff and sometimes rapid training may contribute to infection ocurrence. We hypothesize that a significant proportion of patients with EVD develop nosocomial ventriculitis, primarily due to modificable risk factors such as catheter handling and breaches in aseptic technique.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age ≥ 18 years.
• Hospitalized in a general intensive care unit or intermediate care unit at Nice University Hospital.
• Having undergone EVD placement within the institution.

Exclusion Criteria:

• EVD placed outside the institution with no possibility of follow-up.
• Patient under immediate therapeutic limitation.
• Pre-existing neuromeningeal infection.
• Expression by the patient or by the trusted person of opposition to the processing of the patient's medical data.