Dialysis is done in three shifts, from 7am to 11pm, at National Kidney Foundation (NKF) dialysis centres. Before March 1, when consumption of food was disallowed in the dialysis area, patients could have meals during dialysis.

Even now, Singapore General Hospital's dialysis ward and private dialysis centres have no restriction on food consumption during dialysis. A medical centre in Melbourne, where my uncle is dialysed, allows eating during dialysis.

Patients had just one day to condition themselves to pre-dialysis meals. This resulted in some vomiting and fainting during dialysis as they had to change their routine suddenly.

How will the NKF get around the rule during the Muslim fasting month when the fast is usually broken after starting the evening dialysis session?

Also, patients were not given notice of the footwear policy. It was implemented without adequate preparation and slippers are in short supply. Patients and visitors share them before they are disinfected. A dust mat is not provided and wheelchairs and walking aids find their way to the dialysis area without being cleaned.

The NKF means well by implementing these policies. However, their practicality needs to be evaluated to make adjustments.

I appeal to the management to allow patients to have a light meal during the four or more hours of dialysis and teach them the importance of hygiene.

Cyril Pereira