Dialysis guests have weakened immunity systems. Therefore, they are more prone to infections. Dialysis therapy helps them to remove toxins from the body. However, several infections can impact their health adversely.
Though the physicians take several precautions, the guests need to keep a check on their health. In this blog, we will be discussing what a guest can do to stay away from infections.
Here are some guidelines to help dialysis patients avoid infections:
Hand Hygiene:
This is where the journey for hygiene starts. Washing their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling any dialysis equipment or touching the access site can help keep infections away. Guests can carry a small bottle of alcohol-based hand sanitiser for situations where soap and water are not readily available.
Access Site Care:
Dialysis guests must keep the access site (fistula, graft, or catheter) clean and dry. Following the specific care instructions provided by the healthcare team can help them significantly. They must avoid tight clothing or jewellery that may irritate the access site. In addition, if they feel any discomfort, it is crucial to inform the healthcare team immediately.
Personal Hygiene:
Ensuring good personal hygiene is essential for dialysis patients to maintain their health. A key practice involves taking showers with mild, antibacterial soap to prevent sweat buildup. Additionally, they must cover the access site with a waterproof dressing during showers to minimise the risk of infection. By prioritising personal hygiene, dialysis guests can significantly contribute to their overall well-being, making it one of the simplest and most effective ways to stay healthy.
Environmental Awareness:
To minimize the potential for cross-contamination and mitigate the risk of infections, individuals undergoing dialysis are strongly encouraged to avoid crowded environments.
Take special care during flu season and take precautions to avoid viral infections.
Vaccinations:
One of the most effective ways of staying away from infections is to stay current with vaccinations, which should include annual flu shots and pneumococcal vaccines. Additionally, dialysis guests must consult with their healthcare team to ensure they are up-to-date on other recommended vaccines.
Choosing the right dialysis clinic:
Dialysis guests rely on professional care for their well-being. While numerous hospitals and medical centres offer dialysis therapy, it’s crucial to note that only some facilities adhere to the necessary standards of guest care. Such centres can negatively impact health. Hence, they must choose a dialysis centre where protocols are diligently followed. Therefore, it is imperative to select a facility that prioritises and maintains the highest standards of care to ensure the well-being of dialysis guests.
Regular checkup:
Dialysis guests should diligently adhere to their scheduled appointments and prioritise regular checkups. These appointments are essential as healthcare professionals closely monitor the guests’ overall health, identifying potential issues that may pose a threat.
In summary, maintaining the health of dialysis guests requires a dual commitment—individual diligence and professional care. Following guidelines for hand hygiene, personal care, environmental awareness, vaccinations, and choosing the right facility are crucial steps. Regular checkups further ensure proactive monitoring, identifying potential threats promptly. Together, these measures create a comprehensive approach to infection prevention for dialysis guests.