Skip to content

: Infected Dialysis Site Evaluation

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

: This evaluation checks a dialysis access site for signs of infection. It helps determine whether the area around a dialysis catheter, fistula, or graft has become infected and guides appropriate treatment.

Quick summary

[": An infected dialysis site is a serious complication that requires prompt medical evaluation and treatment."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
71473-3
Short code
INFECTEDDIALYSISSITE
Synonyms
—
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
esrd
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

: What This Evaluation Involves

: A healthcare provider examines the dialysis access site for redness, swelling, warmth, pain, drainage, or tenderness. Depending on what is found, samples such as swabs of drainage or blood cultures may be collected to identify the organism causing infection.

: Why It Is Done

: People receiving dialysis rely on their access site for treatment. An infection there can threaten the access and spread to the bloodstream, so checking the site promptly helps protect both the access and the patient's overall health.

: What the Results Can Mean

: Findings may suggest no infection, a localized site infection, or a more serious infection involving the bloodstream or the access itself. Results guide whether antibiotics, site care, or additional procedures are needed. Your care team will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and history.

: What to Expect

: Testing is generally quick and may involve a physical exam and sample collection. Follow your care team's instructions for access site care and report any worsening symptoms promptly.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

: Infection of a dialysis access site is a clinically important finding because it can progress to bloodstream infection, access failure, or systemic illness. Early recognition and appropriate sampling, such as cultures, support timely treatment and preservation of the dialysis access.

Short name

: NONE

Frequently asked questions

: What are the signs of an infected dialysis site?
: Signs can include redness, swelling, warmth, pain, tenderness, pus or drainage, and sometimes fever or chills. Contact your care team if you notice these changes.
: How is an infected dialysis site diagnosed?
: Diagnosis is based on a physical exam of the access site and may include collecting samples, such as swabs or blood cultures, to look for the organism causing the infection.
: Can an infected dialysis site be treated?
: Yes. Treatment depends on severity and may include antibiotics, site care, or procedures to address the access. Your care team will recommend the appropriate approach.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy