Local infection associated with a peripheral intravenous catheter where bloodstream infection is unlikely
For patients with a suspected local infection associated with a peripheral intravenous catheter where bloodstream infection is clinically unlikely, the key intervention is removing the cannula.
After removing the suspected intravenous cannula, obtain a swab for culture from the insertion site. If the patient appears unwell or has systemic features of infection (eg fever, raised white blood cell count), bloodstream infection should be suspected – for management, see Suspected bloodstream infections associated with intravenous catheters.
For local infections associated with an intravenous cannula, empirical therapy is directed against Staphylococcus aureus.
The following empirical regimens for local infection associated with a peripheral intravenous catheter where bloodstream infection is unlikely are included in this topic: