What is the purpose of using antimicrobial-impregnated catheters?

The use of antimicrobial-impregnated catheters is specifically designed to reduce the risk of catheter-related infections. These catheters are treated with antimicrobial agents that help inhibit the growth of bacteria and other pathogens on the catheter surface. This is crucial in vascular access, as catheter-related infections can lead to serious complications such as sepsis or the need for catheter removal, which can extend hospital stays and increase healthcare costs.

The primary goal of employing these antimicrobial catheters is to provide a safer option for patients who require long-term vascular access, particularly those at higher risk for infections due to factors like chronic illness or immunosuppression. By effectively decreasing the incidence of infections, these catheters contribute significantly to improving patient outcomes and overall healthcare quality.

While easier insertion, patient comfort, and fluid flow rates are important considerations in catheter use, the primary focus and validated benefit of antimicrobial-impregnated catheters lies in their infection prevention capabilities.