EDUCATIONAL CONTRIBUTIONS OF NURSES IN REDUCING BLOODSTREAM INFECTIONS RELATED TO CENTRAL VENOUS ACCESS IN INTENSIVE CARE UNITS

Abstract

Bloodstream infections related to central venous catheters represent an important public health problem, especially in intensive care units, due to their impact on morbidity and mortality, prolonged hospitalization, and increased healthcare costs. This study aimed to analyze the scientific evidence regarding the educational contributions of nurses in reducing these infections among patients admitted to intensive care units. This is a descriptive literature review with a qualitative approach, conducted in the Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS), and Google Scholar databases. Articles published in Portuguese between 2021 and March 2026 were included, resulting in a final sample of 14 studies after the eligibility criteria were applied. The findings revealed that the main factors associated with bloodstream infections include failures in hand hygiene, inadequacies in aseptic technique, low adherence to care protocols, and weaknesses in central venous catheter maintenance. Continuing education strategies, periodic training, clinical simulations, and monitoring of care indicators were identified as important measures to improve adherence to preventive practices and strengthen the patient safety culture. It is concluded that the educational role of nurses directly contributes to improving the quality of care, promoting patient safety, and reducing infection risks associated with central venous catheter use in intensive care units.