2019 Research Forum

Blood Culture Contamination Rates Reduced with the Introduction of Steripath Device in the Emergency Department

Emergency Department

Latoya Boon RN, Bailey Conner RN, Gabrielle Fabbri RN, Hanna Grisham RN, Brogan Hernandez RN, Daisy Mora RN, Jayme Moretti RN, Emmanuel Tien RN, Haley Wayts RN

Blood Culture contamination in the emergency department was on the rise (4-4.8%) so early recommendations to improve compliance to contamination rate lower than 2%. Introduction and training of new device by this ER nurse residency group which effectively eliminates the risk of contamination was introduced in the emergency department. Data from January 2018 to November 2018 reflected a steady decline to less than 1%. With over 700 samples drawn per month in the emergency department alone, the goal to decrease contamination rate, prevent inappropriate use of antibiotics and prevent delays in care, the new device has made a substantial improvement in care. Due to cost, implementation of the Steripath housewide. Data reflected a decline in contamination rates over a 11-month period to less than 1%.

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