| [ Summary ] |
Patients with end-stage renal disease are at increased risk of morbidity and mortality because of infection. Therefore, specific aspects of infection control including the prevention and management of blood-borne diseases and other renal care environment-associated infections for this group of patients should be a priority in hemodialysis facilities. In accordance with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, standard precautions taken should be evidence-based clinical practices and measures that all staff members should apply to blood, bodily fluids, excretions and secretions (expect sweat). Skin breaks and mucous membranes should receive extra care for all patients at all times whether or not an infection is suspected. Additional precautions should be taken for those patients suspected or known to be infected with highly transmissible organisms. Compliance with hand hygiene rules is one of the key components of infection prevention and control. Standard hygienic precautions include the use of gloves and hand washing whenever a patient is touched or equipment is employed, such as blood pressure cuffs, clamps or scissors. Daily cleaning of the general environment with detergent and water and immediate decontamination of spillages of blood or body fluids is mandatory. Vaccination may lower the risk of infections and the likelihood of hospitalization, complications and reduce death rates. |