Assessing the Practice of Infection Control Among Dialysis Staff in Dialysis Centers in Northeast India

Abstract

Background: Chronic kidney disease patients on maintenance hemodialysis have multiple co-morbidities and high risk of infections. This study was conducted to assess the idea and practice of infection control measures in dialysis units in northeast India. Materials and Methods: This observational descriptive study was conducted among the participants of the 5th hemodialysis technician’s conference, held at Guwahati on 29 and 30th October 2022. Data was collected through questionnaire prepared from Center for Diseases Control and Prevention 2016 Infection Prevention and Control Assessment Tool for hemodialysis with some additional parameters. Results: A total of 200 dialysis staff working in different dialysis units of northeast India participated in the study. Among infection control practices, 38% of participants said that their centers had no dedicated area for parenteral medication preparation. Twenty two percent did not clean the dialysis machine after each session. Thirty percent of participants responded that they had no regular training for infection control practices. Sixteen percent reported inadequate hand hygiene facilities near waiting areas. Conclusion: Dialysis staff has a crucial role in providing good standard dialysis care in ESRD patients. Dialysis facilities should have written policies on infection prevention and control and provide regular training to dialysis staff.