Risk factors for hemodialysis catheter-associated infection in patients on hemodialysis programs

A multicenter observational study.

Abstract

Introduction: The hemodialysis catheter is a vascular access that allows immediate dialysis therapy. However, it triggers a significant percentage of infections, affecting patients' quality of life, increasing morbidity and mortality, and increasing healthcare costs. Objective: To identify risk factors associated with catheter infection in chronic hemodialysis patients during the one year from January 2018 to January 2019 in dialysis centers in Quito.

Methodology: A multicenter, analytical, observational, case-control study was conducted in 304 patients receiving catheter-based hemodialysis in four dialysis units in Quito.

Results: Risk factors for catheter infection were: history of smoking (OR 4.6), previous catheter infection (OR 3.2), temporary catheter use (OR 7.7), albumin levels less than 3.5 g/dL (OR 25.5), hemoglobin levels less than 11 g/dL (OR 3.2), and lymphocyte counts less than 1500 mm³ (OR 9.4).

Conclusions: Patients with catheter infection were temporary catheter users with a history of smoking, previous catheter infection, and lower albumin, hemoglobin, and lymphocyte counts. The risk factors associated with catheter infection in this study did not differ from those described in the literature, and it is worth mentioning that these infections are preventable.