The course of the catheter should be periodically examined for signs of infection or inflammation.
Parameters:
(1) discharge associated with the catheter
(2) erythema
(3) tenderness or pain
(4) induration
(5) results of cultures taken from discharge
(6) alternative explanation for clinical findings (extravasation, etc)
According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, a definite infection involves one or both of the following:
(1) a purulent discharge
(2) signs of inflammation (2 or more of erythema, tenderness/pain, induration) AND a serous discharge AND positive culture of the discharge
According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, a probable infection involves one or both of the following:
(1) signs of inflammation (2 or more of erythema, tenderness/pain, induration) AND a serous discharge
(2) signs of inflammation (2 or more of erythema, tenderness/pain, induration) AND no alternative explanation
According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, a possible infection shows
(1) signs of inflammation (2 or more of erythema, tenderness/pain, induration) AND there is an alternative explanation
