Which organization provides guidelines that are used to prevent intravascular catheter-related infections?

• A. CDC
• B. WHO
• C. NIH
• D. FDA

Answer: (A)

The ability to prevent intravascular catheter-related infections comes from guidelines published by the CDC. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is the national public health authority that synthesizes research and translates it into practical, evidence-based practices for healthcare facilities. Their guidelines cover how to insert and care for central venous catheters, emphasizing steps like strict aseptic technique, proper skin antisepsis, diligent hand hygiene, and regular assessment to remove lines when they’re no longer needed. While other organizations, such as the WHO, issue guidelines as well, CDC guidelines are the standard reference used to prevent these infections in clinical settings. NIH and FDA focus on research funding and regulatory oversight, not routine clinical practice guidelines for catheter infection prevention.