PATIENT EDUCATION

Daily routine exit-site care:

• Wash and dry hands thoroughly^{1, 13}
• Inspect catheter, exit-site, and tunnel before catheter care¹
• Showers recommended; avoid immersion in tub
• Cleanse exit-site every day, or a minimum of two times per week⁴
• Cleanse exit-site with liquid antibacterial soap or antiseptic (i.e., povidone iodine or chlorhexidine)¹¹
• Cleansing agent should be nonirritating, nontoxic, antibacterial, and in liquid form^{1, 13}
• Do not transfer cleansing agent between containers to avoid cross-contamination^{1, 13}
• Soften crusts and scabs with saline or soap and water. Never forcibly remove crusts and scabs^{1, 13}
• Apply antibiotic cream or ointment for prophylaxis using a cotton swab. Do not apply directly from tube
• Avoid mupirocin ointment with polyurethane catheters¹¹
• May immobilize catheter with tape or immobilization device at all times
• Apply dressing to protect from contamination¹⁷
• Povidone iodine can be damaging to the peritoneal catheter over time
• Healed site may be left uncovered but should be kept dry¹⁷
• In case of prophylactic antibiotics, a nonocclusive dressing may be suitable
• Perform exit-site care if exit-site becomes wet or grossly contaminated¹³
• Report trauma of exit-site or catheter
• Maintain regular soft bowel movements¹¹

CARE FOR PATIENTS WHO SWIM¹⁸