Streaming Media
Publication Date
2026
Presentation Length
Poster/Gallery presentation
College
Gordon E. Inman College of Nursing
Department
Nursing, School of
Student Level
Undergraduate
Faculty Mentor
Linda Wofford
Presentation Type
Poster
Summary
SPARK Final Summary
Slow your pace; do I-TRACE! The purpose of this project is the addition of the I-TRACE method to strengthen the current strategies and practices with a long-term goal of reducing central line associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) events. CLABSI remains an ICU concern, with an estimated 15,000 cases annually in the U.S. (NHSN, 2026). In 2025, a local ICU reported seven CLABSI events, an unusually high number for one hospital (LeapFrog, 2016). To combat CLABSIs, we will implement the I-TRACE method during every hand-off. The oncoming nurse will assess all central lines and dressings, and both nurses will provide an electronic signature in the EHR as a two-person witness of care. Implementation begins with an EHR upgrade for dual-signature documentation. Charge nurses will provide huddle demonstrations/education during Week 1, with a goal of 100% compliance by the end of the first 30 days. Leadership audits and staff feedback will aid I-TRACE in becoming the unit’s standard of care. The expected outcome is to have a significant reduction in CLABSI rates, as measured by NHSN-defined CLABSI events per 1,000 central-line days (NHSN, 2026). To evaluate whether CLABSIs are decreasing, we will analyze EHR audit logs, clinical decision-support alerts, and documentation compliance to measure adherence. The sustainability of this intervention comes from embedding I-TRACE directly into Expanse, a medical record documentation platform, reducing reliance on individual memory and promoting standardized practice. I-TRACE sign-off will aid in CLABSI prevention by broadening the goal of delivering safe, reliable, and high-quality care.
Recommended Citation
Delaney, Meghan; Geary, McKenna; Knary, Kacie; and Minnich, Chloe, "Slow your pace; do I-TRACE!" (2026). SPARK Symposium Presentations. 908.
https://repository.belmont.edu/spark_presentations/908
