The global incidence of kidney failure requiring dialysis is steadily rising. Over 3.5 million people worldwide, including approximately 540,000 in the United States, undergo maintenance hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis to manage chronic kidney failure [1]. In many regions—especially developing countries—the demand for kidney replacement therapy is surpassing available capacity [2]. The global prevalence of kidney disease is increasing substantially, and the economic burden associated with managing chronic illnesses poses a significant challenge to the sustainability of health care systems worldwide [3]. Dialysis is a life-saving therapy and carries a significant risk as dialysis patients have a weakened immune system and require regular vascular access, making them highly susceptible to infection. Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) in particular are a major driver of morbidity, mortality and healthcare costs [4]. Therefore, infection prevention and improving patient care are highly relevant [4-6].
After cardiovascular disease, infection is the second leading cause of death among dialysis patients [5]. Patients using a central venous catheter for haemodialysis are at significantly higher risk of CLABSIs and have an increased mortality rate compared to patients with a shunt [6]. Studies have shown that preventive strategies such as strict hygiene protocols and standardised catheter hygiene using antimicrobial lock solutions can significantly reduce the risk of CLABSIs and lead to fewer hospitalisations [4,6]. This highlights the importance of effective infection prevention in this vulnerable patient group.
