Maintaining an optimum haemocatheter exit site.

Abstract

As a result of crusty growths over some haemocatheter exit sites, it was decided to explore why these crusty scabs occur and how they could be eradicated. It is concluded that a haemocatheter exit site requires a dressing, which will maintain an optimum environment, and avoid contamination from Staphylococcus aureus. Inadine (Johnson & Johnson) a povidine iodine product, applied before the final dressing of Tielle (Johnson & Johnson Medical), a hydropolymer adhesive dressing creates an ideal environment for healing. The haemocatheter exit site can also be inspected at each dialysis session, but can in fact be left insitu for seven days.