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Article Type

Original Study

Abstract

Objective The aim of this study was to assess the safety measures for patients in hemodialysis units, aiming to improve the quality of medical services provided by the hemodialysis units in Menoufia Governorate and to evaluate hemodialysis units from the safety point of view. Background Hemodialysis is the most well-established form of treatment for end-stage renal failure. Standard precautions with additional measures are recommended specifically for dialysis centers to prevent transmission of bacteria and viruses from patient to patient. Patient and methods The study was conducted on 19 units of hemodialysis. All patients with end-stage renal disease under regular hemodialysis in these units were included. A questionnaire from the ministry of health and population was used. Results The percentage of working machines to total machines ranged from 77.4 to 100%. Practicing routine handwashing was 'good' in 60% of units, application of infection control measures was 'good' in half of the units, application of environmental infection control measures was 'good' in 12 units, and waste management was 'good' in 18 units. Workers were totally vaccinated against hepatitis B virus in eight units. Hepatitis B virus-positive patients had complete isolation. The level of safety in the studied units was 'good' in three units and 'fair' in 16 units. Conclusion More than 25% of the dialysis machines exceeded the recommended working hours/duration. Personal protective clothes and cleaning materials were available with shortage in usage. There was a shortage in the medical staff, especially in governmental hospitals. There was shortage in infrastructure of the most of dialysis units.

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