Novel intervention based on an individualized bundle of care to decrease infection in kidney transplant recipients

Infection remains a relevant complication after kidney transplantation (KT). A well-established strategy in modern medicine is the application of bundles of evidence-based practice in clinical settings. The objective of this study is to explore the application of a personalized bundle of measures aimed to reduce the incidence of infection in the first 12 months after KT.

A single-center prospective cohort of 148 patients undergoing KT between February 2018 and September 2019 that received an individualized infection prevention strategy was compared to a preintervention cohort (n = 159). The bundle comprised a review of the patient's immunization history, infection risk by country of origin, screening for latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI), antimicrobial prophylaxis, and immunological assessment. Individualized recommendations were accordingly provided at a scheduled visit at day +30 after transplantation.

The intervention cohort showed a higher compliance rate with the recommended vaccine schedule, screening for geographically restricted infections and LTBI, and intravenous immunoglobulin and vitamin D supplementation (p values <.001). The 1-year incidence rate of infection was lower in the intervention cohort (42.6% vs. 57.9%; p value = .037), as was the rate of infection-related hospitalization (17.6% vs. 32.1%; p value = .003) and the incidence of severe bacterial infection. There were no differences in graft rejection or mortality rates between groups.

A multifaceted intervention, including a bundle of evidence-based practices, enhanced compliance with recommended preventive measures and was correlated with a reduction in the 12-month incidence of infection after KT.