The effect of COVID-19 pandemic on personal hygiene behavior and the frequency of peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis patients

Abstract

Introduction and Aim: Peritonitis is a critical complication in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients, making compliance with personal hygiene essential. This study examines the impact of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) pandemic on hygiene behaviors and peritonitis incidence in PD patients. Materials and Methods: Fifty-two PD patients were assessed for hygiene behaviors, demographic, and medical data. Laboratory parameters and peritonitis culture results were compared before and after COVID-19. Results: Post-COVID-19, significant improvements were observed in 11 hygiene behaviors, including hand washing (p < 0.001). The peritonitis rate decreased from 28.8.% to 13.5%, though this was not statistically significant (p = 0.093). Among those without post-COVID peritonitis, hand washing before connecting the transfer set and regular exit site dressing were more frequent. Conclusion: Following COVID-19, PD patients demonstrated improved hygiene behaviors and reduced peritonitis rates. Emphasis on hand washing and exit site care is recommended in all PD programs.