Comparing the rates of driveline exit site infections in LVAD patients showering with different water sources.

Abstract

Background Infections at the driveline exit site (DLES) is a common complication following left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation. This project examined rates of freedom from DLES infection in patients who were taught to shower following LVAD surgery. The water source the patients reported using was compared. Methods All durable LVAD patient implants at a single center from June 2011 to April 2017 were retrospectively reviewed (n = 135). Patients were instructed to shower with no dressing covering their DLES, to use antibacterial soap and then immediately apply a sterile dressing using a standard kit of supplies. Upon follow up, fourteen patients were excluded due to not surviving index hospitalization. An additional three were excluded due to incomplete information. Patients self-reported the source of their home water-well or municipal water on their home safety check list. Infections were diagnosed with positive exit site cultures. Data were analyzed using chi-square statistics. Conclusions In conclusion, patients who are provided instruction to shower have comparable rates of DLES infections despite the source of shower water. Results DLES infections were documented in 28 of 118 patients. 84% and 72% of patients who showered with well water (n = 32/38) and municipal water (58/80) were free of DLES infections respectively (p = 0.16). Comparing the rates of driveline exit site infections in LVAD patients showering with different water sources.