CVCs are necessary for virtually every patient at some point.  However, this form of access leaves patients highly vulnerable to catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs). Preventing CRBSIs when possible with universal precautions, excellent exit site care, and correct use of effective catheter lock solutions (CLS) is a critical HD nursing focus.  This course focuses on internal sources of infection and their prevention with CLS products.
Objectives
- Outline the impact of catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) in the United States.Â
- Identify five strategies to help prevent CRBSIs.
- Describe the steps required to use a catheter lock solution for a hemodialysis patient.
- List four symptoms that would lead you to suspect a possible CRBSI due to a hemodialysis CVC.
Accreditation for this course expires October 31, 2026.
Learners must complete the entire activity, receive a score of at least 80% on the post-test, and complete the course evaluation to be awarded contact hours. Learners can print or save their completion certificates and should keep them for a minimimum of 4 years. It is the responsibility of the learner to determine if these CE contact hours will be accepted by a particular licensing organization.
- Nurse Planner – Steffanie Gissal, BSN, RN
- Authors – Jennifer Ravert, RN and Dori Schatell, MS
This activity was funded, in part, by an unrestricted educational grant from CorMedix.
