Assessment of knowledge and attitude of patients on hemodialysis toward prevention of central venous catheters associated blood stream infections, during ongoing sudan war: a cross sectional study.

Background: Central venous Catheter (CVC) associated bloodstream infections remain a significant cause of morbidity and mortality among hemodialysis patients. Improving patient knowledge and attitudes is crucial for prevention. Objectives: To assess the knowledge and attitudes of patients receiving hemodialysis toward prevention of central venous catheter associated blood stream infections during the ongoing war in Sudan. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional hospital-based study, conducted at Ad Doueim Dialysis Centre, White Nile State, Sudan, from January to April 2026, during the ongoing war period. Data were collected from patients using a pre-tested structured questionnaire covering demographics, knowledge of signs/symptoms of catheter infection, and attitudes toward catheter care. Results: The study included a total of 70 patients undergoing hemodialysis. 37.1%( n=26) were aged above 50 years, males constituted 65.7% (n=46). 74.3% (n=52) from rural areas. 65.7% (n=46) of low educational level. 64.3% (n=45) had a previous history of a central venous catheter (CVC) related bloodstream infection. 64.3% (n=45) were using temporary catheters.35.7% (n=25) were using long term tunneled catheters. 81.4% (n=57) demonstrated awareness of the importance of hand hygiene. 20% (n=14) were able to correctly identify local signs of infection such as redness, pain, or purulent discharge. Statistically significant associations were identified between knowledge level and infection rate (P value = 0.01), educational level and level of awareness (p value=0.03), as well as duration of hemodialysis and occurrence of infection (p value = 0.02). Conclusion: The study highlights substantial gaps in patient knowledge and preventive practices regarding central venous line associated blood stream infections. Low educational level, inadequate health education, and prolonged catheter use were associated with increased infection risk. Structured educational interventions and continuous patient awareness programs are strongly recommended to improve catheter care and reduce infections among hemodialysis patients.Strict infection control measures and proper catheter care practices should be reinforced by healthcare providers. Early reporting of infection symptoms should be encouraged, and adequate educational and infection prevention resources should be ensured in dialysis centres.