Peritoneal dialysis catheter exit-site care: results of an international survey.

A survey was developed to determine the prevalence of specific components of postoperative and chronic peritoneal catheter exit-site care procedures. Surveys were mailed to approximately 1800 participants of the 1991 Peritoneal Dialysis Conference; 585 surveys (80.6% from the United States and 96% from adult units) were analyzed. The most frequent components of postoperative exit-site care were the use of prophylactic antibiotics, daily dressing changes, procedures limited to specially trained staff, use of sterile technique, povidone iodine and hydrogen peroxide as cleansing agents, and gauze dressings. The most frequent components of chronic exit-site care procedures were daily care done with shower or bathing, antibacterial or pure soap for cleansing, hydrogen peroxide only as needed, catheter stabilization, dressings optional, and gauze dressings when used. Twice daily exit care, change in cleansing agent, and topical antibiotics were recommended for inflamed or infected exit sites. There were significant differences between the United States and other locations, particularly in the type of cleansing agent, use of hydrogen peroxide, and use of dressings for chronic care. Pediatric programs (all located in the United States or Canada) differed somewhat from adult programs in North America. Pediatric patients and their families were significantly more likely to be trained to do postoperative dressing changes and significantly less likely to perform exit-site care at the time of showering or bathing.