What are systemic signs of CVAD infection?

• A. Fever, chills, malaise, positive blood cultures
• B. Cough and runny nose
• C. Skin rash only
• D. Hyperglycemia

Answer: (A)

Systemic signs of a CVAD infection indicate that the infection has entered the bloodstream, causing a body-wide response. Fever and chills are classic responses to bacteria in the blood, as cytokines raise temperature and trigger chills. Malaise reflects the overall feeling of being unwell that comes with systemic infection. Positive blood cultures confirm that bacteria are present in the circulation, which is the key evidence of a catheter-related bloodstream infection.

Other symptoms listed don’t fit systemic CVAD infection as clearly. A cough and runny nose suggest a localized respiratory issue rather than a bloodstream infection. A skin rash alone could be a local reaction or another condition and doesn’t by itself indicate the bloodstream involvement seen with systemic infection. Hyperglycemia can occur during illness or stress but isn’t a specific sign of CVAD infection on its own.