Protocol for detection of biofilms on needleless connectors attached to central venous catheters

Central venous catheter needleless connectors (NCs) have been shown to develop microbial contamination. A protocol was developed for the collection, processing, and examination of NCs to detect and measure biofilms on these devices. Sixty-three percent of 24 NCs collected from a bone marrow transplant center contained biofilms comprised primarily of coagulase-negative staphylococci. Intravenous (i.v.) access lines (6, 7) and needleless connec-tors (NCs) (3, 4) have been demonstrated to be a risk factor for blood stream infection (BSI). Patients who require long-term i.v. access, such as bone marrow transplant patients, are at even greater risk for BSI. To deliver i.v. fluids (e.g., medication, blood products, or nutrients), tubing must be connected to i.v. catheters that enter the patient’s bloodstream. Until recently, such connections have been made using beveled, hollow-bore needles that pierce an elastic membrane on a catheter end cap. Because of the potential for needle-stick injuries and health care worker exposure to bloodborne pathogens, many institu