PRINCETON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital has announced a significant patient safety achievement, reaching 500 consecutive days without a central line–associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI).
Hospital officials said the facility reduced its central line infection rate to 0.00 in 2025 and is on track to maintain that rate through 2026. By comparison, the national average stands at 0.08 infections per 1,000 central line days.
A CLABSI is a serious healthcare-associated infection that can occur when bacteria or other pathogens enter the bloodstream through a central line, which is a specialized intravenous catheter used to deliver medications, fluids, nutrition, or dialysis over extended periods.
“Reaching 500 days without a CLABSI is a testament to the dedication and vigilance of our entire care team,” said Karen Bowling, president and CEO of WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital.
“Every member of our staff plays a role in ensuring the safety of our patients, and this milestone demonstrates what can be achieved through collaboration, accountability, and a shared commitment to excellence.”
Hospital leaders credited strict safety protocols for the milestone.
A specialized vascular access team conducts daily visits with patients who have central lines to help prevent infections. Their work includes daily skin cleansing, treating the patient’s nose to remove germs, and removing unnecessary lines.
The hospital has also expanded its team of intensivists — physicians specially trained to care for critically ill patients in the intensive care unit — to further improve patient care.
By preventing CLABSIs, the hospital aims to reduce complications, shorten hospital stays, and improve overall outcomes for patients and families across the region.
Officials said the facility remains focused on maintaining these standards through ongoing education, monitoring, and adherence to evidence-based practices.
The hospital marked the milestone with a “Let’s Taco ‘Bout It” celebration, coinciding with May 5, Cinco de Mayo.
