Miss Minn Tock1
1Melbourne Health, Parkville, Australia
Biography:
I am a Registered Nurse with six years of experience in nephrology, working across both acute ward environments and a satellite dialysis unit. My clinical background includes comprehensive care of patients with complex renal needs, spanning haemodialysis, chronic kidney disease management, renal transplants, and acute presentations. I have a strong professional interest in wound care and dressings, which has led to my additional role as a Wound Resource Nurse. I’m passionate about improving patient outcomes through evidence‑based practice, interdisciplinary collaboration, and ongoing professional development within the renal and wound‑care specialties.
Abstract:
Background:
Catheter migration during haemodialysis presents serious risks, including infection, haemorrhage, and the need for urgent radiological or operative intervention. An incident in which a patient’s catheter was found migrated near the end of dialysis, despite routine hourly checks, prompted this review. The patient required a non-standard dressing due to a reaction to standard products, highlighting potential gaps in monitoring practices.
Aim:
To evaluate current haemodialysis catheter assessment and monitoring practices, identify variations in care, support earlier detection of catheter migration, and reduce the risk of clinically significant migration.
Methods:
We report findings of a quality assurance review across three metropolitan satellite dialysis centres over a four-week period. Inclusion criteria were the use of haemodialysis catheters as a primary vascular access. Patient demographics, baseline catheter measurements from exit site to hub, along with dressing type, were recorded, with catheter length measured at each dialysis session. Data collection was via a structured tool with descriptive analysis used to identify trends, early indicators of catheter migration, and the relationship to dressing type.
Results:
27 patients were included. The mean age was 65.2 years (SD 13.6), and 38% were female. The mean catheter duration from the date of insertion was 11 months. Minimal catheter migration was observed over the 2-week follow-up period, ranging from 0.1 to 1.0 cm. Complete demographics, findings, and practice recommendations are being presented.
Discussion:
This study provides critical data to clarify factors that may influence catheter migration risk. Results will inform improvements in catheter monitoring practices.