Which factor reduces morbidity and mortality associated with exit-site infections?

Which factor reduces morbidity and mortality associated with exit-site infections?

• A. Abx prophylaxis
• B. Frequent dressing changes
• C. Early recognition
• D. Avoidance of feeding

Answer: (C)

Recognizing an exit-site infection early is essential because localized infection can quickly progress along the catheter tract to the peritoneal cavity or bloodstream. Detecting it promptly allows immediate, targeted antibiotic therapy and necessary catheter management decisions before serious complications develop, thereby lowering the risks of hospitalization, peritonitis, and sepsis. Watch for redness, tenderness, drainage or warmth at the exit site, and fever. While antibiotic prophylaxis can reduce the overall chance of infection, it doesn’t address an infection that has already started; frequent dressing changes help protect the site but don’t ensure early detection; avoidance of feeding isn’t related to exit-site infections. So, early recognition is the most effective way to reduce morbidity and mortality.

Recognizing an exit-site infection early is essential because localized infection can quickly progress along the catheter tract to the peritoneal cavity or bloodstream. Detecting it promptly allows immediate, targeted antibiotic therapy and necessary catheter management decisions before serious complications develop, thereby lowering the risks of hospitalization, peritonitis, and sepsis. Watch for redness, tenderness, drainage or warmth at the exit site, and fever. While antibiotic prophylaxis can reduce the overall chance of infection, it doesn’t address an infection that has already started; frequent dressing changes help protect the site but don’t ensure early detection; avoidance of feeding isn’t related to exit-site infections. So, early recognition is the most effective way to reduce morbidity and mortality.