Infection Prevention
These measures go beyond the basic "core measures" and are generally measured and shared by hospitals focusing intensely on quality and service. Some of these measures are not publicly reported to any regulatory agencies but are important in expanding the scope of quality improvement.
Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia
What are we measuring?
The rate of adult patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) on ventilators (machines that help them breathe) who develop pneumonia. California Pacific's rate for 2008 was zero.
Why is this important?
Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia (VAP) is a lung infection that can develop in patients who are put on ventilators. Hospitals can reduce the risk of developing this very serious complication with careful attention to preventive measures.
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Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections
What are we measuring?
The rate of adult patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) with bloodstream infections due to an intravenous catheter.
Why is this important?
A central intravenous catheter is a device inserted directly into a major blood vessel to allow quick delivery of medications. Patients in ICUs may have a central line placed if they need intravenous nutrition, medications, or monitoring. Central lines are often vital to care but provide an easy way for infection to enter the bloodstream. These infections are very serious but they can be often prevented with careful attention to preventive measures.
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