Among strategies to reduce CLABSI, which is most directly associated with decreased infection risk?

• A. Timely line removal.
• B. Longer line dwell time.
• C. Frequent line manipulations.
• D. Avoid dressing changes.

Answer: (D)

The main idea is that CLABSI risk increases the longer a central line stays in place. Each additional day provides more opportunity for bacteria to colonize around the catheter and enter the bloodstream, especially in neonates who have more vulnerable immune systems. Removing the line as soon as it’s no longer needed directly eliminates that ongoing source of infection, making it the most effective way to lower risk. If a line must remain, the focus should be on minimizing touches and maintaining strict sterile technique during any access, plus ensuring dressings are kept clean and changed per policy when damp, so the barrier at the insertion site stays intact. Avoiding dressing changes would compromise the site and raise infection risk, rather than reduce it. So, prompt removal when possible directly ties to decreased infection risk, and proper dressing care supports that protection when a line can’t be removed immediately.