Bloodstream infections due to intravascular catheterization, peritoneal catheters for dialysis, suprapubic or transurethral catheters, are one of the major sources of nosocomial infections. Therefore, the prevention of catheter-associated infections is an important issue for physicians and nursing staff working in hospitals or in outpatient settings. The risk can be minimized by diligent checking of the indications, hygienic measures, using the right materials, thorough follow-up and education of the medical and nursing staff. Thus it is possible to avoid individual suffering of patients and to reduce costs in the healthcare system.