What percentage of patients on dialysis experience vascular access infection?

Patients undergoing dialysis are at an increased risk for infections related to their vascular access sites due to the nature of their treatment. Statistically, approximately 20% of dialysis patients experience vascular access infections, which can lead to complications such as bacteremia, longer hospital stays, and an increased risk of morbidity and mortality. Awareness of this statistic is crucial for healthcare professionals involved in the care of these patients, as it highlights the importance of infection prevention strategies, regular monitoring, and prompt management of any signs of infection at the access site. Effective care practices aim to reduce the incidence of these infections and enhance patient outcomes.