Shower Technique Protocol (STP) for Kidney Failure (HIPPO-SAT Trial)

Background: The investigators developed a Shower Technique protocol (STP) for hemodialysis (HD) patients with healed central venous catheter (CVC) exit sites, designed to permit showering but not increase infection risk. Research question: Is it feasible to conduct a randomized control trial comparing the rate of CVC related bacteremia (CRB) in adult satellite HD patients using STP versus standard CVC care alone with 6 month follow up? Study Design: This pilot study is a multi-centre randomized control trial. Eligible participants will be randomized to STP versus standard care after meeting predefined criteria to confirm healed tunneled CVC exit site. Primary Outcome: Feasibility will be determined based on 5 outcome measures: accuracy of the CRB rate documentation in the satellite setting, percentage of patients screened, recruited, educated successfully in the STP (intervention arm), and aspects of STP (% of contaminated patients in the control arm). Study Setting: In satellite units affiliated with 2 academic and 3 community centres in south central Ontario, Canada. Patient Population: Adult satellite HD patients dialyzing via CVC with healed CVC exit sites. Intervention: STP and standard CVC care; or Control: standard CVC care; Analysis: Each measure of feasibility has its statistical threshold for success. If the threshold is reached in 4 of the 5 measures, the full HIPPO SAT study will be deemed feasible. Discussion: A pilot feasibility study of the larger study is critical due to the potential challenges associated with recruitment, compliance and contamination.