For instance, a new rule, which took effect last Saturday, banned food brought from home and elsewhere in the dialysis centre.

Even bottled mineral water is not allowed.

The reason given was that these may cause infection.

When I came to know about the new rule well before its implementation, I asked the nurses to explain to me how the previous arrangement, which made dialysis a more bearable experience, was unhygienic and potentially infectious.

I was not given an explanation.

I then asked the management and drew a blank there as well.

Now, a cleaner prepares drinks and biscuits for the patients. The cleaner's duties include mopping the centre and cleaning the toilet. She wears the same uniform which is not washed regularly.

Patients must also wear slippers provided by the NKF now. Their own footwear, which was allowed previously, is now considered potentially unhygienic.

The problem is, there are only 25 pairs which 100 patients must share. There are patients who have foot fungus, ulcers and foot odour which can be easily transmitted.

How hygienic is that?

Patients wearing artificial limbs are given plastic covers to put over their shoes, which could make them slip and fall.

A large number of patients are diabetic. As a rule, diabetics avoid wearing slippers because these may cut their feet and cause bleeding and infection.

I appeal to the organisation to check the condition of its patients before implementing new rules that, while well-meaning, may lead to the unhealthy consequences the NKF wishes to avoid.

Suveida Mydin (Ms)