scholarly journals 771. COVID-19 on the Line: A Significant Increase in CLABSI in Hospitalized Patients with COVID-19 at a Major Teaching Hospital

2021 ◽  
Vol 8 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S482-S483
Author(s):  
Pishoy Haroun ◽  
Michael Ben-Aderet ◽  
Meghan Madhusudhan ◽  
Matthew J Almario ◽  
Ryan C Raypon ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Real Time ◽  
Teaching Hospital ◽  
Nurse Staffing ◽  
Bloodstream Infections ◽  
Central Line ◽  
Contributing Factors ◽  
Subjective Data ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Clabsi Rate

Abstract Background We observed an increase in central line associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) associated with the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic and performed a retrospective analysis to better understand the impact of COVID-19 on CLABSI rates. Figure 1. CLABSI rate in 2019 vs CLABSI rate in 2020 A comparison of CLABSI rates (displayed in infections/1000 catheter days) in all adult inpatients at our institution for calendar-years 2019 and 2020 Methods Retrospective review was done for all CLABSI in adults meeting National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) criteria in 2020 at an 889-bed teaching hospital. CLABSIs in encounters with PCR-confirmed COVID-19 (COVID CLABSI) were compared with CLABSIs in encounters without a COVID diagnosis (non-COVID CLABSI). As a secondary analysis, we also reviewed all CLABSI occurrence in 2019. Characteristics were compared using Mid-P Exact (Poisson) and Chi Squared (categorical) Tests. Subjective data collected by infection preventionists during real-time case reviews with clinical staff of each CLABSI was also reviewed. Results In 2020, the rate of COVID CLABSI (CLABSI/1000 catheter days) was 6.6 times greater than the rate of non-COVID CLABSI (5.47 vs. 0.83, p< 0.001). In the COVID CLABSI group we observed higher rates of occurrence in the ICU setting (94% vs 28%, p< 0.001), in house mortality (53% vs 26% P=0.0187), presence of arterial lines (91% vs 20%, p< 0.001) and increased number of catheter lumens (4 vs 3, p< 0.001). No significant difference was observed in the distribution of pathogens. No significant differences were observed between 2019 CLABSI and 2020 non-COVID CLABSI. Real-time case reviews identified changes in nurse staffing, increased nurse: patient ratios, delays in routine central line dressing changes, and inconsistent use of alcohol-impregnated port protectors as possible contributing factors. Table 1. 2020 COVID CLABSI vs 2020 non-COVID CLABSI A comparison of selected patient and catheter characteristics in COVID CLABSI vs non-COVID CLABSI in 2020 Table 2. 2019 CLABSI vs 2020 non-COVID CLABSI A comparison of selected patient and catheter characteristics in CLABSI in 2019 vs non-COVID CLABSI in 2020 Figure 2. CLABSI rate in 2019 vs COVID CLABSI and non-COVID CLABSI in 2020 A comparison of CLABSI rates (displayed in infections/1000 catheter days) in all adult inpatients at our institution for calendar years 2019 and 2020, with the infections in 2020 divided into those that occurred during an encounter with a PCR -confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 and those without. Conclusion We observed a dramatically higher rate of CLABSI in patients with COVID-19 in 2020, while the rate of CLABSI in patients without COVID-19 remained unchanged from the year prior. Higher rates of ICU admission, critical illness, increased numbers of lumens, increased presence of arterial lines, nurse staffing changes, and gaps in routine line prevention processes associated with emergency measures in the COVID-19 cohort ICU may have contributed to this finding. Further work is needed to better understand how to minimize process-related disruptions in central line care during a hospital response to a pandemic. Disclosures Jonathan Grein, MD, Gilead (Other Financial or Material Support, Speakers fees)

scholarly journals Mucosal Barrier Injury Laboratory-Confirmed Bloodstream Infections (MBI-LCBI): Descriptive Analysis of Data Reported to National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN), 2013

2015 ◽  
Vol 37 (1) ◽  
pp. 2-7 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lauren Epstein ◽  
Isaac See ◽  
Jonathan R. Edwards ◽  
Shelley S. Magill ◽  
Nicola D. Thompson
Keyword(s):  
Acute Care ◽  
Descriptive Analysis ◽  
Bloodstream Infections ◽  
Central Line ◽  
Mucosal Barrier ◽  
National Healthcare ◽  
National Healthcare Safety Network ◽  
Mucosal Barrier Injury ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Clabsi Rate

OBJECTIVESTo determine the impact of mucosal barrier injury laboratory-confirmed bloodstream infections (MBI-LCBIs) on central-line–associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) rates during the first year of MBI-LCBI reporting to the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN)DESIGNDescriptive analysis of 2013 NHSN dataSETTINGSelected inpatient locations in acute care hospitalsMETHODSA descriptive analysis of MBI-LCBI cases was performed. CLABSI rates per 1,000 central-line days were calculated with and without the inclusion of MBI-LCBIs in the subset of locations reporting ≥1 MBI-LCBI, and in all locations (regardless of MBI-LCBI reporting) to determine rate differences overall and by location type.RESULTSFrom 418 locations in 252 acute care hospitals reporting ≥1 MBI-LCBIs, 3,162 CLABSIs were reported; 1,415 (44.7%) met the MBI-LCBI definition. Among these locations, removing MBI-LCBI from the CLABSI rate determination produced the greatest CLABSI rate decreases in oncology (49%) and ward locations (45%). Among all locations reporting CLABSI data, including those reporting no MBI-LCBIs, removing MBI-LCBI reduced rates by 8%. Here, the greatest decrease was in oncology locations (38% decrease); decreases in other locations ranged from 1.2% to 4.2%.CONCLUSIONSAn understanding of the potential impact of removing MBI-LCBIs from CLABSI data is needed to accurately interpret CLABSI trends over time and to inform changes to state and federal reporting programs. Whereas the MBI-LCBI definition may have a large impact on CLABSI rates in locations where patients with certain clinical conditions are cared for, the impact of MBI-LCBIs on overall CLABSI rates across inpatient locations appears to be more modest.Infect. Control Hosp. Epidemiol. 2015;37(1):2–7

Eliminating Central Line–Associated Bloodstream Infections: A National Patient Safety Imperative

2014 ◽  
Vol 35 (1) ◽  
pp. 56-62 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sean M. Berenholtz ◽  
Lisa H. Lubomski ◽  
Kristina Weeks ◽  
Christine A. Goeschel ◽  
Jill A. Marsteller ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Bloodstream Infections ◽  
The United States ◽  
Central Line ◽  
Program Goal ◽  
National Patient ◽  
National Initiative ◽  
Adjusted Incidence Rate ◽  
Rate Ratios ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Clabsi Rate

Background.Several studies demonstrating that central line–associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) are preventable prompted a national initiative to reduce the incidence of these infections.Methods.We conducted a collaborative cohort study to evaluate the impact of the national “On the CUSP: Stop BSI” program on CLABSI rates among participating adult intensive care units (ICUs). The program goal was to achieve a unit-level mean CLABSI rate of less than 1 case per 1,000 catheter-days using standardized definitions from the National Healthcare Safety Network. Multilevel Poisson regression modeling compared infection rates before, during, and up to 18 months after the intervention was implemented.Results.A total of 1,071 ICUs from 44 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, reporting 27,153 ICU-months and 4,454,324 catheter-days of data, were included in the analysis. The overall mean CLABSI rate significantly decreased from 1.96 cases per 1,000 catheter-days at baseline to 1.15 at 16–18 months after implementation. CLABSI rates decreased during all observation periods compared with baseline, with adjusted incidence rate ratios steadily decreasing to 0.57 (95% confidence intervals, 0.50–0.65) at 16–18 months after implementation.Conclusion.Coincident with the implementation of the national “On the CUSP: Stop BSI” program was a significant and sustained decrease in CLABSIs among a large and diverse cohort of ICUs, demonstrating an overall 43% decrease and suggesting the majority of ICUs in the United States can achieve additional reductions in CLABSI rates.

The Impact of a Dedicated Nurse on the Prevention of Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections in the NICU

2021 ◽  
Vol 40 (2) ◽  
pp. 88-97
Author(s):  
Sabra Curry ◽  
Ellen Mallard ◽  
Elizabeth Marrero ◽  
Melinda Walker ◽  
Robin Weeks ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Rate Increase ◽  
Bloodstream Infections ◽  
Central Line ◽  
Rate Reduction ◽  
Cause Analysis ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Bundle Compliance ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Neonatal Population ◽  
Clabsi Rate

BackgroundThe neonatal population is at increased risk for central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) related to prematurity, critical illness, and compromised immune function.1,4,5MethodsTo address a 30 percent CLABSI rate increase, a quality improvement (QI) project in a Level IV NICU was developed and implemented by the NICU CLABSI team in 2018. The project trialed a dedicated CLABSI prevention-registered nurse (DCP-RN) role with select responsibilities aimed at rate reduction. The DCP-RN spearheaded an RN education plan, addressed prevention bundle compliance, and aided in establishing a reliable apparent cause analysis (ACA) process.ResultsThe outcome resulted in an over 50% reduction in the CLABSI rate and permanent adoption of the DCP-RN role in the NICU.

scholarly journals Assessing effect of catheter type and position on central line-associated bloodstream infections in the NICU

2018 ◽  
Vol 23 (suppl_1) ◽  
pp. e59-e59 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ariane Leveillee ◽  
Anie Lapointe ◽  
Christian Lachance ◽  
Myriam Descarries ◽  
Julie Autmizguine ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Birth Weight ◽  
Gestational Age ◽  
Dwell Time ◽  
Bloodstream Infections ◽  
Venous Catheter ◽  
Central Line ◽  
Catheter Insertion ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Picc Line ◽  
Clabsi Rate

Abstract BACKGROUND Central venous catheter usage in NICU remains associated with serious complications such as bloodstream infection. Also, low position (underdiaphragmatic) of umbilical venous catheter (UVC) is tolerated despite not recommended. To our knowledge, no previous study assessed the effect of such a position on central line associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) rates in the NICU. OBJECTIVES The primary objectives of this study were to assess global CLABSI rates for each central catheter subtype and position, and specific rates according to birth weight and gestational age. Dwell time before infection and microorganisms involved were also evaluated. DESIGN/METHODS For this retrospective cohort study, all neonates hospitalized in Level 3 NICU, from April 1st 2011 to March 31st 2016, in whom a central line was inserted, were included. Data about catheter insertion, demographic characteristics and bloodstream infections was extracted from local CVC database, local CLABSI database, patient medical record, post catheter insertion X-rays and Canadian Neonatal Network database. Difference in CLABSI rates and type of microorganisms involved were analyzed using Cox regression and Chi2. Difference in dwell time was analyzed using a one-way ANOVA and evolution in time of the proportion of each type of catheter presented as observational data. RESULTS A total of 1577 neonates were included and 2440 CVC were studied. Median gestational age (GA) was 30 2/7 [26 6/, 37] weeks and birth weight (BW) was 1310 [680, 2796] g. Of the 2440 neonates, 1308 were boys (53.6%). There was a total of 197 CLABSI. Total number of catheter days over the study period was 23 479 days. CLABSI rate for high UVC was 11.49 per 1000 catheter days compared to 6.92 for PICC line (p < 0.001) and 5.14 for femoral CVC (p = 0.008). CLABSI rate for low UVC was 17.31 per 1000 catheter days (p = 0.002 when compared to high UVC). Median dwell time before infection is 7 days for high UVC, 5 days for low UVC and 11 days for PICC (p < 0.001). Microorganism involved in CLABSI was a majority of Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus in 57.1–71.9% without a statistically significant difference between groups (p= 0.33). CONCLUSION Evolution of CVC usage over years remained stable. CLABSI rates are significantly higher with all UVC compared with PICC line and femoral CVC, particularly for newborn < 1500g and < 32 weeks of GA. Low UVC are associated to higher CLABSI rates than high UVC. Health professionals should be cautious with indwelling UVC, especially when in low position. They might conisder replacing low lines by a PICC as soon as possible.

scholarly journals 583. Improving Catheter Scrub Technique and Compliance in a Level IV Neonatal ICU

2019 ◽  
Vol 6 (Supplement_2) ◽  
pp. S275-S275
Author(s):  
Misti G Ellsworth ◽  
Sarah Milligan ◽  
Lauren Yager ◽  
Ann Kubanda ◽  
Krysten Webber ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Real Time ◽  
Bloodstream Infections ◽  
Central Line ◽  
Fiscal Year ◽  
Intervention Period ◽  
New Strategy ◽  
Neonatal Icu ◽  
Correct Technique ◽  
Residual Product ◽  
Clabsi Rate

Abstract Background Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) are challenging to prevent in the neonatal population due to the long-term necessity of central access for nutrition and medication. Neonates are a population at high risk for CLABSIs, and infections in this group are associated with prolonged hospitalization, greater healthcare costs, and increased mortality. Current bundles for CLABSI prevention include a friction scrub of the catheter hub prior to each use. Real-time audits of correct technique can be challenging. In July of 2018, our team developed a new strategy for auditing scrub technique in an attempt to reduce CLABSI rates. Methods This project took place in a NICU with 118 level 4 beds from July 2018 to February 2019. Our NICU is located in a large metropolitan area and serves as a referral center for complex neonates throughout the region. The intervention period encompassed 25,085 patient-days and 6,206 line days. Real-time friction scrub audits were performed for both dedicated line team staff as well as bedside nurses. In order to determine whether a healthcare worker’s (HCW) scrub technique was successful, a colorless luminescent product was applied to a practice catheter hub that adhered to the hub, but was not visible to the HCW. The HCW would then demonstrate a friction scrub on the practice catheter, and the hub was placed under a black light to show where any residual product may be present. This process was repeated until the staff member was able to remove the product from the hub. Once the staff was successful, monthly real-time audits were continued to reinforce the correct technique. Results Between July 2018 and February 2019, compliance with scrub technique and ability to clear product from catheter hubs increased by 50%. The CLABSI rate in the first 9 months after intervention was 0.806 per 1000 line days as compared with 2.170 per 1000 line days in the previous fiscal year. Conclusion The number of CLABSI’s during the intervention period was 63% less when compared with the previous fiscal year. This process, in conjunction with our other CLABSI prevention practices, has significantly decreased both our CLABSI rate and overall numbers. This project emphasizes the importance of focusing on the basics of infection prevention practices and continual auditing to prevent practice creep. Disclosures All authors: No reported disclosures.

scholarly journals Impact of the Revised Non–Culture-Based Methodology Criteria on Central-Line–Associated Bloodstream Infections

2020 ◽  
Vol 41 (S1) ◽  
pp. s266-s266
Author(s):  
Geehan Suleyman ◽  
Thomas Chevalier ◽  
Nisreen Murad ◽  
George Alangaden
Keyword(s):  
Blood Culture ◽  
Bloodstream Infections ◽  
Central Line ◽  
Blood Cultures ◽  
Molecular Test ◽  
Current Definition ◽  
Previous Definition ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Positive Results ◽  
Clabsi Rate

Background: The current NHSN guideline states that positive results from both blood cultures and non–culture-based testing (NCT) methodologies are to be used for central-line–associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) surveillance determination. A positive NCT result in the absence of blood cultures or negative blood cultures in patients who meet CLABSI criteria is to be reported to NHSN. However, the reporting criteria for NCT changed starting January 1, 2020: If NCT is positive and the blood culture is negative 2 days before or 1 day after, the NCT result is not reported. If the NCT is positive with no blood culture within the 3-day window period, the NCT result is reported in patients who meet CLABSI criteria. We estimated the impact of the new NCT criteria on CLABSI numbers and rates compared to the previous definition. Methods: At our facility, the T2Candida Panel (T2), an NCT, was implemented for clinical use for the detection of early candidemia and invasive candidiasis. The T2 is a rapid molecular test performed directly on blood samples to detect DNA of 5 Candida spp: C. albicans/C. tropicalis, C. glabrata/C. krusei, and C. parapsilosis. In this retrospective study performed at an 877-bed teaching hospital in Detroit, we reviewed the impact of discordant T2 results (positive T2 with negative blood cultures) on CLABSI rates from January 1, 2017, to September 30, 2019, based on the current definition, and we applied the revised criteria to estimate the new CLABSI numbers and rates for the same period. Results: Of 343 positive T2 results, 202 (58.9%) were discordant and qualified for CLABSI determination during the study period. Of these, 109 (54%) met CLABSI criteria based on the current definition and 11 (5%) met CLABSI criteria using the new definition (proportional P < .001), resulting in an 89.9% reduction. The CLABSI rate per 1,000 central-line days, which includes discordant T2 results, based on the current and new NCT criteria, are listed in Table 1. Conclusions: In institutions that utilize NCT such as T2, application of the new 2020 NCT NHSN definition would significantly reduce the CLABSI number and have a significant impact on the CLABSI rates and standardized infection ratios (SIRs).Funding: NoneDisclosures: None

scholarly journals Effect of Removing Contact Precautions for Multidrug-Resistant Organisms on Hospital Infections in a Pediatric Health System

2020 ◽  
Vol 41 (S1) ◽  
pp. s199-s200
Author(s):  
Matthew Linam ◽  
Dorian Hoskins ◽  
Preeti Jaggi ◽  
Mark Gonzalez ◽  
Renee Watson ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Hand Hygiene ◽  
Antibiotic Stewardship ◽  
Infection Prevention ◽  
Tertiary Care ◽  
Bloodstream Infections ◽  
Central Line ◽  
Contact Precautions ◽  
Stewardship Program ◽  
Tract Infections ◽  
The Impact

Background: Discontinuation of contact precautions for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant Enterococci (VRE) have failed to show an increase in associated transmission or infections in adult healthcare settings. Pediatric experience is limited. Objective: We evaluated the impact of discontinuing contact precautions for MRSA, VRE, and extended-spectrum β-lactamase–producing gram-negative bacilli (ESBLs) on device-associated healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). Methods: In October 2018, contact precautions were discontinued for children with MRSA, VRE, and ESBLs in a large, tertiary-care pediatric healthcare system comprising 2 hospitals and 620 beds. Coincident interventions that potentially reduced HAIs included blood culture diagnostic stewardship (June 2018), a hand hygiene education initiative (July 2018), a handshake antibiotic stewardship program (December 2018) and multidisciplinary infection prevention rounding in the intensive care units (November 2018). Compliance with hand hygiene and HAI prevention bundles were monitored. Device-associated HAIs were identified using standard definitions. Annotated run charts were used to track the impact of interventions on changes in device-associated HAIs over time. Results: Average hand hygiene compliance was 91%. Compliance with HAI prevention bundles was 81% for ventilator-associated pneumonias, 90% for catheter-associated urinary tract infections, and 97% for central-line–associated bloodstream infections. Overall, device-associated HAIs decreased from 6.04 per 10,000 patient days to 3.25 per 10,000 patient days after October 2018 (Fig. 1). Prior to October 2018, MRSA, VRE and ESBLs accounted for 10% of device-associated HAIs. This rate decreased to 5% after October 2018. The decrease in HAIs was likely related to interventions such as infection prevention rounds and handshake stewardship. Conclusions: Discontinuation of contact precautions for children with MRSA, VRE, and ESBLs were not associated with increased device-associated HAIs, and such discontinuation is likely safe in the setting of robust infection prevention and antibiotic stewardship programs.Funding: NoneDisclosures: None

scholarly journals COVID-19 Pandemic, CLABSI, and CAUTI: The Urgent Need to Refocus on Hardwiring Prevention Efforts

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-22
Author(s):  
Mohamad G. Fakih ◽  
Angelo Bufalino ◽  
Lisa Sturm ◽  
Ren-Huai Huang ◽  
Allison Ottenbacher ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Urinary Catheter ◽  
Bloodstream Infections ◽  
Central Line ◽  
Coagulase Negative Staphylococcus ◽  
Safe Environment ◽  
Candida Sp ◽  
Optimal Line ◽  
Considerable Impact ◽  
Tract Infections ◽  
The Impact

Abstract Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has had a considerable impact on US hospitalizations, affecting processes and patient population. Methods: We evaluated the impact of COVID-19 pandemic in 78 US hospitals on central line associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) and catheter associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI) events 12 months pre-COVID-19 and 6 months during COVID-19 pandemic. Results: There were 795,022 central line-days and 817,267 urinary catheter-days over the two study periods. Compared to pre-COVID-19 period, CLABSI rates increased during the pandemic period from 0.56 to 0.85 (51.0%) per 1,000 line-days (p<0.001) and from 1.00 to 1.64 (62.9%) per 10,000 patient-days (p<0.001). Hospitals with monthly COVID-19 patients representing >10% of admissions had a NHSN device standardized infection ratio for CLABSI that was 2.38 times higher compared to those with <5% prevalence during the pandemic period (p=0.004). Coagulase-negative staphylococcus CLABSI increased by 130% from 0.07 to 0.17 events per 1,000 line-days (p<0.001), and Candida sp. by 56.9% from 0.14 to 0.21 per 1,000 line-days (p=0.01). In contrast, no significant changes were identified for CAUTI (0.86 vs. 0.77 per 1,000 catheter-days; p=0.19). Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic was associated with substantial increases in CLABSI but not CAUTI events. Our findings underscore the importance of hardwiring processes for optimal line care, and regular feedback on performance to maintain a safe environment.

scholarly journals Review of Best Practices for CLABSI Prevention and the Impact of Recent Legislation on CLABSI Reporting

SAGE Open ◽  
2016 ◽  
Vol 6 (4) ◽  
pp. 215824401667774 ◽  
Author(s):  
Benjamin Woodward ◽  
Reba Umberger
Keyword(s):  
Best Practices ◽  
Healthcare Providers ◽  
Bloodstream Infections ◽  
Central Line ◽  
Mandatory Reporting ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Common Source ◽  
Healthcare Associated Infection ◽  
Extrinsic Factors ◽  
The Impact

Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) are a very common source of healthcare-associated infection (HAI). Incidence of CLABSI has been significantly reduced through the efforts of nurses, healthcare providers, and infection preventionists. Extrinsic factors such as recently enacted legislation and mandatory reporting have not been closely examined in relation to changes in rates of HAI. The following review will examine evidence-based practices related to CLABSI and how they are reported, as well as how the Affordable Care Act, mandatory reporting, and pay-for-performance programs have affected these best practices related to CLABSI prevention. There is a disconnect in the methods and guidelines for reporting CLABSI between these programs, specifically among local monitoring agencies and the various federal oversight organizations. Future research will focus on addressing the gap in what defines a CLABSI and whether or not these programs to incentivize hospital to reduce CLABSI rates are effective.

scholarly journals 1166. Evaluating the Impact of the 2016 Candidemia Guidelines on the Incidence of Ocular Complications of Candidemia

2020 ◽  
Vol 7 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S609-S609
Author(s):  
Molly Hillenbrand ◽  
Senu Apewokin
Keyword(s):  
Vision Loss ◽  
Bloodstream Infections ◽  
Empiric Therapy ◽  
Prescribing Patterns ◽  
Ocular Complications ◽  
Ocular Penetration ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Before And After ◽  
Eye Exams ◽  
The Impact

Abstract Background The incidence of Candida bloodstream infections has risen over the last several decades. Complications of candidemia include endogenous fungal endophthalmitis which can result in devastating outcomes including vision loss. In 2015, the IDSA guidelines were updated to recommend echinocandins as initial therapy for candidemia. Given the poor ocular penetration of echinocandins there has been some concern this change may portend an increased incidence of ocular complications in candidemic patients. We sought to examine whether patients who received empiric echinocandin therapy developed higher rates of ophthalmic complications of candidemia. Methods We identified patients in our healthcare system who had blood cultures positive for Candida species and a completed ophthalmology consult between January 1, 2014 and April 30, 2019. Chi-squared analysis was used to compare antifungal prescribing patterns before and after release of the updated IDSA guidelines. We assessed whether the switch to empiric echinocandin therapy as directed by the guidelines was associated with higher rates of abnormal eye exams. Results 47 patients treated before the guideline change were compared to 57 patients treated after the guideline change. There was no significant difference in age, gender, or comorbid diabetes and hypertension between the groups. Before the guideline change, 24/47 (51%) of patients received eye-penetrating antifungals. This decreased to 21/57 after the updated guideline (37%, p=0.21). The percentage of patients with positive eye exams was nearly equal before and after the updated guidelines, 10/47 (21%) before vs 13/57 (22%) after (p=1). After the guideline change, 7/21 (33%) of the patients treated with penetrating antifungals had positive eye exams vs 6/36 (16%) who received echinocandins (p=0.19). Conclusion Echinocandins are known to have poor ocular penetration yet our data demonstrate no change in the incidence of ophthalmic complications of candidemia after the 2016 guideline endorsed echinocandins as empiric therapy. The prevalence of positive eye exams throughout our study period was 22%, suggesting ongoing utility for these exams. Ongoing investigation is necessary to confirm and further study these findings. Disclosures All Authors: No reported disclosures

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