Peterson Health Recognized Nationally for Excellence in Patient Safety
Heart and Vascular
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At Peterson Health, patient safety is at the center of everything we do. That commitment was recently recognized on a national level when Becker’s Hospital Review named Peterson Health one of only 405 hospitals in the country to achieve a Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infection (CLABSI) rate of zero.
While the recognition is significant, Jason Loftin, Director of Heart & Vascular Services, says it represents something much bigger than a number.
“Achieving a zero CLABSI rate is the result of an organization-wide commitment to providing the safest care possible,” Loftin said. “It reflects the work of many teams across Peterson Health who are dedicated to doing the right thing for every patient, every day.”
What is a CLABSI?
A Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infection (CLABSI) is a serious infection that can occur when bacteria enter the bloodstream through a central venous catheter, commonly called a central line. These infections can lead to longer hospital stays, additional complications, increased healthcare costs, and in severe cases, can become life-threatening.
The good news is that many CLABSIs are preventable through careful attention to evidence-based practices.
Prevention Starts Before the Line Is Placed
According to Loftin, preventing infections begins with choosing the right vascular access device for the right patient at the right time.
“Our team follows strict sterile insertion techniques, standardized maintenance protocols, and evaluates central lines every day to determine whether they are still needed,” he said. “The sooner unnecessary lines are removed, the lower the risk for infection.”
The vascular access team also partners closely with bedside caregivers to provide education, monitor compliance with infection prevention guidelines, and continuously evaluate opportunities to improve patient safety.
A Team Achievement
Although the recognition highlights infection prevention, Loftin emphasizes that this accomplishment belongs to many departments throughout Peterson Health.
He credits the organization’s vascular access specialists, Lynne Rowan, RN, and Donald Thigpen, RN, along with bedside nurses, infection prevention specialists, physicians, advanced practice providers, respiratory therapy, critical care teams, environmental services, and leadership for making this achievement possible.
“Success like this only happens when everyone works together,” Loftin said. “It takes collaboration, accountability, and a shared commitment to excellence.”
A Commitment That Continues
For patients and families, this recognition provides reassurance that Peterson Health is committed to delivering safe, high-quality care close to home.
While a zero CLABSI rate is an important milestone, Loftin says the work doesn’t stop there.
“Patient safety isn’t a one-time achievement – it’s part of our culture,” he said. “We will continue investing in education, following best practices, monitoring outcomes, and looking for every opportunity to improve the care we provide.”
Behind every quality recognition is a team of healthcare professionals dedicated to protecting patients and delivering the highest standard of care. This national recognition reflects Peterson Health’s ongoing commitment to providing exceptional care for the communities we proudly serve.
