Partnering With Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis to Prevent Catheter-Associated Bloodstream Infections

The threat of catheter-associated bloodstream infections (CABSIs) among hemodialysis patients is present beyond health care settings. With the rise of antimicrobial-resistant infections, the benefits of partnering with patients in preventing CABSIs cannot be overemphasized. Patient education is the cornerstone of patient engagement, and a prerequisite for other involvement strategies. The responsibility for educating patients is multidisciplinary and must be accentuated at all stages of hemodialysis care. Enhancing patient self-efficacy in preventing CABSIs requires them to have an adequate level of knowledge on infection prevention and the skills and confidence to self-care in the community. Providing patient education is the first step to empower patients, facilitating their ownership of their journey in care and safeguarding them from infections.