Hemodialysis catheter care: current recommendations for nursing practice in North America.
Vascular access is essential for hemodialysis (HD). Many patients require a catheter for HD, either long-term or short-term, if they do not have a functional fistula or graft. Catheter-related complications, such as bacteremias and catheter dysfunction, can be reduced with consistent use of recommended practices for catheter management. This article will detail the complications, challenges, and the need for best practices. It will describe current recommended practices of catheter care and how they are integrated into the care of patients on HD in North America.
Vascular Access for Education and Research, Cary, NC, USA. lesleyd@nc.rr.com
Lesley C
LC
Dinwiddie
Cynthia
C
Bhola
D002404:Catheterization / Q000009:adverse effects; D002408:Catheters, Indwelling; D004509:Education, Nursing, Continuing; D006801:Humans; D017053:Infection Control; D006435:Renal Dialysis; D017749:Total Quality Management