Patient Safety

 Reducing Adverse Events

Infections (including those affecting the bloodstream) are the second leading cause of death among hemodialysis patients.

Dialysis patients are at increased risk for infection and other complications associated with common co-morbidities. Among the key areas of focus for providers and patients are: reduction of healthcare associated infections, management of current medication lists to ensure patient safety and outcomes, and vaccinations to protect dialysis patients who are immunosuppressed and exposed to the healthcare environment more frequently than the general public.

Resources:
Sepsis Alliance: Healthcare Toolkit
CDC: Get Ahead of Sepsis Educational Resources

Safety for Dialysis Patients

The 5 Diamond Patient Safety Program has provided a resource for the community to incorporate patient safety into their organizational culture.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers excellent resources on the patient’s role in his or her own safety when receiving dialysis treatment.

• http://www.cdc.gov/dialysis/patient/index.html
• http://www.cdc.gov/HAI/patientSafety/patient-safety.html

Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality: Vignette Scenarios

• Fostering a Culture of Safety

• Patient Engagement in Infection Prevention