Hemodialysis (HD) patients are at great risk for infection because of hemodialysis procedures and comorbidities. Frequently, episodes of bacteremia are associated with vascular access devices (VADs) in the hemodialysis population. Hemodialysis VADs include arteriovenous fistula (AVF), arteriovenous graft (AVG), or a CVAD placed for dialysis. This presentation will explain the different VADs used in hemodialysis and their respective infection rates. The role of the infusion nurse in decreasing infection rates will be described.

At the conclusion of the presentation, the participant will be able to:

1. Explain the different HD VAD options.

2. Rank the devices in terms of increasing infection rates.

Speaker:

James Robson, BSN, RN, CCRN-CMC, CNN
Clinical Nurse III
Carolinas HealthCare System

This session has been approved for 1 contact hours.

Expiration date for receipt of contact hours: May 7, 2017

This session has been approved for 1.0 CRNI® recertification unit.