Dialysis

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

University of Chicago Medical Center
Chicago, IL

Published:
October 2, 2014

Abstract

Dialysis-associated infections include access site infections, bacteremia, peritonitis, and bloodborne pathogens. In order to prevent these types of infections, infection preventionists should be familiar with the recommendations to reduce the risk of access-associated infection, hemodialysis water processing and distribution systems, medication safety, the basic concepts of hemodialyzer reuse and the reuse program in their own facility, and steps for prevention of bloodborne pathogen transmission in the dialysis setting. This chapter provides basic and best practice information on each of these areas as well as a reference for practitioners to use for comparison of local practice. In addition, action steps to take in response to potential scenarios and dialysis resources are provided.