Mycobacteria organisms live in water and food sources. Colonization can occur without the host showing any manifestations and is difficult to treat due to a natural resistance to many antibiotics. Mycobacterium infections occur in central vascular access devices (CVADs), particularly in the immunosuppressed patient population. This presentation will give an overview of mycobacterium infections specific to CVADs, the treatment, prevention, and the role of the infusion nurse.

At the conclusion of the presentation, the participant will be able to:

1. Describe the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and clinical features of mycobacterium.

2. Discuss the diagnosis, treatment, and nursing implications in the care of the patient with mycobacterium CVAD infection.

Speaker:

Mary Ellen Scales, RN, MSN, CIC
Chief Infection Control Officer
Baystate Medical Center

This session has been approved for 1 contact hour.

Expiration date for receipt of contact hours: May 7, 2017

This session has been approved for 1.0 CRNI® recertification unit.