What is a common consequence of catheter-associated bloodstream infections?

Choosing prolonged hospitalization as the correct answer highlights the serious implications of catheter-associated bloodstream infections (CABSI). These infections can lead to significant complications, requiring extended medical intervention and monitoring. When a patient develops a CABSI, the body may react with systemic inflammation, potentially causing sepsis or other life-threatening conditions. This necessitates additional medical treatments, which often include intravenous antibiotics, potentially surgical interventions, and extended periods of observation in a hospital setting.

In contrast to this option, accelerated healing, immediate recovery, and increased mobility are not typical outcomes associated with CABSI. On the contrary, these infections may lead to delays in healing and recovery due to the body's need to combat the infection. Patients are often required to be more sedentary due to their medical condition and the treatments being administered. Understanding these consequences emphasizes the importance of infection control measures in the management of vascular access devices to prevent CABSI and its associated risks.