The challenge of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus prevention in hemodialysis therapy.

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-1-2012

Institution/Department

Nephrology and Transplant; Surgery

Journal Title

Seminars in dialysis

MeSH Headings

Catheters, Indwelling, Cross Infection, Global Health, Hemodialysis Units, Hospital, Humans, Incidence, Kidney Failure, Chronic, Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Renal Dialysis, Risk Factors, Staphylococcal Infections

Abstract

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections have challenged care process and resource utilization in the acute hospital care setting for nearly 30 years. These infections have become important causes of morbidity, mortality, and a source of concern in the primary and emergency care context over the past decade. As individuals receiving recurrent therapy with features of both ambulatory care and acute care, hemodialysis patients are exposed to numerous opportunities for MRSA acquisition. Surprisingly, high prevalence rates for MRSA colonization have been demonstrated for both hemodialysis patients and their care providers. The necessity of vascular access and the persistent high prevalence of endovascular catheter use among patients repeatedly exposed to healthcare settings provide the perfect milieu for the troubling rates of MRSA infection, particularly bloodstream infections, in outpatient dialysis care. Dialysis industry shifts, including increased requirements for compliance and reporting in other areas of dialysis care, tax resources for infection prevention processes. Multifaceted strategies that include reassessment of vascular access care, attention to the interruption of MRSA transmission dynamics, and emphasis on organizational learning processes are needed to accomplish a meaningful reduction in the morbidity, mortality, and cost associated with MRSA infections in dialysis care.

ISSN

1525-139X

First Page

42

Last Page

49

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