OBJECTIVE: To identify rationale for removal of the first Hickman catheter implanted in patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, the micro-organisms involved in the occurrence of infection, and the length of time the catheter was in situ. METHODS: A cross sectional, retrospective study was conducted. The sample consisted of 57 transplant recipients. To conduct chart review, an instrument was developed containing variables related to patient identification, time of catheter use, reason for withdrawal, and isolated micro-organisms. RESULTS: Among the reasons for catheter removal, frequent infection (49%) was the most common; the Stenotrophomonas maltophilia microorganism (25%) was the most frequently isolated. CONCLUSIONS: Due to the high incidence of infectious complications leading to Hickman catheter removal, it is essential to standardize catheter care for the health care team, patients and their caregivers.
Bone marrow transplantation; Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation; Central venous catheterization; Nursing care
