Table 1.

Diagnostic Challenges in Defining CRBSIs.

Peripheral blood cultures are not obtained, either because their veins cannot be accessed or because an existing vein needs to be preserved for fistula.

Suboptimal handling of blood cultures obtained in the outpatient dialysis unit: ● Variable period before culture bottles are eventually placed in an incubator ● Differences in temperature during transport to a microbiology laboratory

The physician may not be available at the time of clinical presentation to exclude other sources of infection.

The increasing role of catheter salvage means catheter tips are not being sent for cultures.

The use of antibiotic locks for prevention may interfere with diagnosis.

Note. CRBSI = catheter-related bloodstream infection.