Vascular access infection control

July 6, 2008

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This article highlights the importance of education in infection prevention. The authors illustrate that procedures may be common place, however they discover that the delivery of education related to vascular access and infection prevention is limited.

Higgins, M. and Evans, D.S. (2008) Nurses’ knowledge and practice of vascular access infection control in haemodialysis patients in the republic of ireland. Journal of Renal Care. 34920, p.48-53.

Abstract:

“Vascular access hygiene is an integral component of haemodialysis care. Ensuring nurses possess sufficient knowledge and utilise recommended guidelines on infection control is essential for safe practice and patient safety. The study aimed to investigate nurses’ knowledge and practice of vascular access infection control among adult haemodialysis patients in the Republic of Ireland. A confidential self-completion questionnaire was sent to all 190 qualified nurses employed in nine haemodialysis units in the Republic of Ireland, which assessed knowledge and behaviour in infection control. Although 92% of respondents reported that policies had been developed by their units and 47% had received infection control education in the previous year, knowledge and adherence to best practice demonstrated significant scope for improvement. The study recommended the development of standard guidelines and regular reviews and updates of policies. Systems should also be developed to ensure a high level of compliance” (Higgins and Evans 2008).