You may receive one of your medications through a central venous catheter (also called a CVC, a central line, or simply a catheter) if you have pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Although your catheter is vital for delivering the medication you need, it also provides a route for germs (bacteria) to enter your body. If bacteria enter your bloodstream through your CVC and begin to grow there, a bloodstream infection occurs.
Why BSIs are dangerous
- Bacteria growing in your bloodstream can damage your internal organs and interfere with your body's functions
- If not treated rapidly, a bloodstream infection in a person with PAH can very quickly become life-threatening
If you think you may have a BSI, call your doctor right away.
Other types of infections
People with CVCs can also get exit-site or tunnel infections. These occur when bacteria invade the skin and soft tissue at the site where the catheter leaves the body. If not treated promptly, these types of local infections can turn into bloodstream infections.
Treatment for BSIs
How a doctor treats an infection depends on whether it is a local infection (exit site or tunnel infection) or a bloodstream infection. Treatment may include antibiotics, hospitalization, and, in some cases, replacement of the catheter.
Talk to your doctor about steps you can take to mix your medication in a clean environment and prevent BSIs.
