It is important to monitor rates of CLI because this infection can prolong hospitalization and can result in serious complications in critically ill patients. When a patient requires long-term access to medication or fluids through an intravenous (IV), a central line is put in place. Patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) often require a central line since they are seriously ill and will require a lot of medication, for a long period of time. A central line bloodstream infection can occur when bacteria and/or fungi enters the blood stream. The bacteria can come from a variety of places (e.g., skin, wounds, environment, etc.), though it most often comes from the patient’s skin.