Which action can help prevent hospital-associated infections for patients on total parenteral nutrition?

Training staff thoroughly on central line maintenance is vital in preventing hospital-associated infections, especially for patients on total parenteral nutrition (TPN). Central lines are often used to administer TPN, which means they provide a direct route into the bloodstream. This can make patients particularly vulnerable to infections if the lines are not properly cared for.

Thorough training ensures that all healthcare providers understand and follow best practices for insertion, maintenance, and care of central lines. This encompasses techniques such as hand hygiene, proper application of sterile barriers during line placement, regular assessment of the line sites for signs of infection, and adherence to protocols for changing dressings and handling the lines. Each of these practices significantly reduces the risk of introducing pathogens into the bloodstream, which is a critical factor in preventing infections in patients receiving TPN.

In contrast, using regular bandages instead of sterile dressings increases the risk of contamination, while minimizing TPN infusion and discontinuing TPN after 24 hours may not address the underlying risks associated with central line management. Thus, effective training is essential for ensuring both the safety of the patient and the efficacy of the treatment.