Range: 2.8‑0. The lower the better.
A central line is a narrow tube inserted by a doctor into a large vein of a patient's neck or chest to give important medication. When not inserted or cleaned properly, central lines become a way for germs and bacteria to enter the body and cause serious blood infections called central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs). Blood infections may increase the length or cost of a hospital stay, and can cause death. These infections are largely preventable through proper management and care of the central line by hospital staff.