| [ Summary ] |
The risk of catheter-related blood stream infection (CRBSI) increases with the age of patients undergoing hemodialysis. As sepsis due to CRBSI in the elderly shows no specific symptoms and does not necessarily fulfill the systemic inflammatory response syndrome criteria, diagnosis and treatment are difficult. Therefore, preventive measures based on the guidelines are essential. Selection of the appropriate insertion site and maximum barrier precautions during placement of the catheter are critical for controlling infection. A close observation of the insertion site, hand hygiene, and aseptic technique is required on a daily basis. Chills and shaking, subsequently followed by fever, are the signs indicating CRBSI. Once CRBSI is suspected, two sets of blood cultures should be performed before administering antibiotics, and the catheter should be removed immediately. Then, empiric antibiotics should be administered. As the incidence rate of CRBSI could be reduced by implementing preventive measures, it is important to enforce these measures in the entire hospital. |