Evaluation of Catheter-Related Bacteremia in Hemodialysis Patients Key Findings and Implications

Key Findings of the Study:

  • Infection Prevalence: Nearly two-thirds of patients with suspected catheter-related infections had positive blood cultures.
  • Common Pathogens: The most frequently identified bacteria were Staphylococcus epidermidis (24.5%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (9.8%), and methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (9.8%).
  • Risk Factors: Factors associated with a higher infection risk included prolonged catheter use, suboptimal insertion practices, diabetes, and hypoalbuminemia.
  • Clinical Manifestations: Fever, chills, catheter dysfunction, and exit-site infections were common indicators of catheter-related bacteremia.
  • Management Strategies:
    • Broad-spectrum antibiotics (vancomycin and ceftazidime) were the primary empiric therapy.
    • Catheter removal was required in 44% of cases.
    • Antibiotic lock therapy was used in 36% of patients to salvage catheters.
    • Definite antibiotic treatment was tailored based on culture sensitivity.

Broader Implications for Hemodialysis Care The American Society of Nephrology emphasizes that preventing catheter-related infections requires strict adherence to aseptic techniques, timely removal of catheters, and alternative vascular access options such as arteriovenous fistulas. Implementing antibiotic lock therapy and systemic antimicrobial strategies can help reduce infection-related complications.

Strategic Link Placement:

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