Haemodialysis catheter infection reduction

October 30, 2008

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Taylor, C., Cahill, J., Gerrish, M. and Little, J. (2008) A new haemodialysis catheter-locking agent reduces infections in haemodialysis patients. Journal of Renal Care. 34(3), p.116-20).

Abstract:

Background: Intravenous catheters for haemodialysis increase the risk of sepsis. This study investigates the use of a taurolidine/citrate catheter-locking agent for patients receiving hospital-based haemodialysis, auditing the number and cost of infections before and after its introduction.

Methods: The incidence and cost of treatment of catheter sepsis occurring in all patients receiving haemodialysis via a line were investigated over 6-month periods before and after introducing the taurolidine/citrate line-locking agent.

Results: A reduction of 4.62 infections per 1000 catheter days, or 88.5%, was shown after the introduction of the new line-locking agent.

The total costs of line infections in the first 6 months were €52 500, (£41 000); after the introduction of the taurolidine/citrate locks, these reduced to €33 300, (£26 000), a reduction of €19 200 (£15 000).

Conclusions: The use of a taurolidine/citrate haemodialysis catheter-locking agent in our haemodialysis population has significantly reduced the line sepsis rate, with a positive impact on morbidity, mortality and cost.

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