Assessing and training patients on peritoneal dialysis in their own homes can influence better practice

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) offers the opportunity of a better quality of life for patients as long as they are able to perform dialysis according to the set procedures. Our aim in this study was to assess the change in PD patients' knowledge about their treatment and practice through repeated home visits. This study was based on the findings of a previous study. Fifteen patients participated and received two visits post training. During the visits, a questionnaire was completed, and the answers were analysed. Data were analysed by percentage statistics and assessed for differences between the two visits. The correct number of answers given during the first visit was 25.5 +/- 3.2/31 and was 27.8 +/- 4.0/31.8 at the second visit. The mean infection section and medication scores had increased from the original study findings. The personal hygiene section was the least correctly answered section. Consecutive home visits revealed that as the time on PD increased, knowledge and practice regarding infections and medication increased. Personal hygiene scores did not improve. This study confirmed the importance of home visits in detecting the weakest point of PD practice.