An asepsis breach commonly occurs during these key points: at catheter insertion, when changing dressings, or when handling the line. Of course, major factors contributing to blood infection are poor hand hygiene and a lack of product sterilization. Medical professionals are trained and fully aware of the measures to prevent infection. However, circumstances work against them.

Today, hospitals and medical professionals feel the stress of high numbers of patients coupled with staff shortages. There is often less time for patients and double checking each step in a procedure, let alone finding time to optimize protocols.

A high turnover of trained clinicians also means staff are not all trained to the same standard operating procedures, which leads to inconsistencies in handling.

Finally, juggling products and devices for a blood transfusion can open too many doors to infection. Too much time is spent gathering supplies, or individual components are not properly disinfected.