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FirstDoNoHarm.com Provides Clearinghouse of Information for Healthcare Professionals on Prevention of Catheter-Related Bloodstream Infections New Web site supports awareness of and compliance with infection-protection and safety guidelines that benefit patients and healthcare workers. Reading, PA, March 7, 2006—A new online resource is now available — www.FirstDoNoHarm.com — for medical professionals concerned about reducing the incidence of catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSI). The Web site is sponsored by Arrow International, Inc., the leading global provider of central venous catheter (CVC) products. “We know that quantifiable benefits can be achieved, both in terms of lives saved and costs reduced, through a heightened emphasis on sterile technique and infection protection and leading to a decreased rate of CRBSI. Arrow feels this online tool can help hospitals and healthcare workers reduce patient infection risk and increase safety in the critical care environment. Initiatives like the 100,000 Lives Campaign and the Keystone Project have brought a renewed focus to patient safety issues—a focus that has always been at the forefront of Arrow product development,” said Richard J. Eagle, Vice President, Venous Access Business Unit for Arrow International. FirstDoNoHarm.com provides medical professionals access to news, clinical studies and research on topics related to catheter safety and CRBSI reduction, as well as access to current safety guidelines and standards from the CDC, JCAHO, IHI and OSHA. Arrow also has initiated “Catheter Mythbusters,” a monthly e-mail bulletin in which the answers to True/False questions help clarify procedures and catheter product attributes that can play a role in CRBSI reduction. Those interested in receiving free Catheter Mythbusters e-bulletins can register at www.FirstDoNoHarm.com. The Web site takes its name—First Do No Harm—from one of the fundamental tenets of medicine first expressed by Hippocrates 2,400 years ago. Eagle points out that in addition to the negative impact a CRBSI can have on the patient, the cost of treating a single CRBSI can reach $56,000 or more, according to the CDC. “We invite medical professionals to take a look at the site and judge for themselves the value of the information provided,” added Eagle. “In the near future, we plan to expand the resources available at the site, as well as create a ‘community’ where users can exchange best practices and share knowledge.” About Arrow |
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