Which of the following is NOT a common route of CVC infection?

Perforation is not typically identified as a common route for central venous catheter (CVC) infections. The primary pathways for infection with CVCs generally include migration, contamination, and occlusion.

Migration refers to the movement of the catheter within the vascular system, which can inadvertently allow for bacteria or other pathogens to enter the bloodstream, leading to infection. Contamination often arises from the external environment, where pathogens can enter the catheter hub or the insertion site, increasing the risk of an infectious process. Occlusion, while it primarily refers to the blockage of the catheter, can also lead to conditions that predispose to infection due to the inability to properly maintain or flush the catheter, potentially leading to stagnant blood and increased risk for microbial growth.

In contrast, perforation typically involves the catheter damaging nearby structures but is not a direct pathway for infection itself. The focus on infection routes emphasizes the importance of maintaining sterile conditions and proper catheter management to minimize infection risks.