Frequency and Causes of Sepsis Among Dialysis Patients at a Tertiary Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya: A Retrospective Clinical Audit

Patients undergoing dialysis are particularly vulnerable to infection due to repeated vascular access, frequent contact with healthcare systems, and impaired immune responses. Sepsis is a leading cause of hospitalization and mortality in this population, with catheter-related bloodstream infections representing a major contributor to adverse outcomes 1. The risk of sepsis is further amplified in low- and middle-income settings, where delayed creation of permanent vascular access and resource constraints often necessitate prolonged use of central venous catheters. Despite this increased risk, local data describing the burden and causes of sepsis among dialysis patients in Kenya remain limited. Clinical audits provide an important mechanism for evaluating real-world practice, identifying gaps in care, and informing targeted quality improvement interventions. This study aimed to determine the frequency and causes of sepsis among dialysis patients at Alliance Hospital, Nairobi, and to assess adherence to infection prevention and sepsis management standards based on international guidelines