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

ŞİMŞEK E., Atas D. B., TUĞCU M., VELİOĞLU A., ARIKAN İ. H., AŞICIOĞLU E.

Therapeutic Apheresis and Dialysis, vol.29, no.3, pp.491-499, 2025 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 29 Issue: 3
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.1111/1744-9987.14251
  • Journal Name: Therapeutic Apheresis and Dialysis
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, MEDLINE
  • Page Numbers: pp.491-499
  • Keywords: COVID-19, peritoneal dialysis, peritonitis, personal hygiene behaviors
  • Marmara University Affiliated: Yes

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.