Dialysis

Author(s):
Sylvia Garcia-Houchins, RN, MBA, CIC Director, Infection Control Program

 University of Chicago Medical Center
Chicago, IL

Jessica Rindels, MBA, BSN, RN, CIC, CPHQ Manager, Infection Prevention & Control

Overland Park Regional Medical Center

Overland Park, KS

Revised Publication:
June 11, 2024
Original Publication:
October 12, 2014
Declarations of Conflicts of Interest:
  • Sylvia Garcia-Houchins declares no conflicts of interest.
  • Jessica Rindels declares no conflicts of interest.

Abstract

Dialysis-associated infections include access site infections, bacteremia, peritonitis, and bloodborne pathogens. To prevent these, Infection Preventionists (IPs) need to be familiar with recommendations on reducing the risk of access-associated infections, prevention of bloodborne pathogen transmission, water processing and distribution systems, hemodialyzer reuse, and medication safety. This chapter provides IPs with basic information on the process and risks associated with dialysis and best practices to prevent infections.