Which complication would the client be most concerned about if choosing peritoneal dialysis?

Which complication would the client be most concerned about if choosing peritoneal dialysis?

• A. Abdominal infection/Peritonitis.
• B. Graft thrombosis.
• C. Hypertension.
• D. Seizures.

Answer: (A)

Peritoneal dialysis relies on the peritoneal membrane to exchange wastes and fluids, so the most worrisome complication is infection of that space—peritonitis—from contamination of the dialysis solution or catheter. Peritonitis presents with cloudy dialysate, abdominal pain, and sometimes fever; if not addressed quickly, it can damage the peritoneal membrane, reduce dialysis effectiveness, and lead to sepsis. Management emphasizes rapid evaluation of the effluent, culture, and prompt antibiotic therapy delivered into the peritoneal cavity, along with addressing the source and reinforcing sterile technique. Prevention centers on strict aseptic technique during connections and disconnections, diligent hand hygiene, and meticulous exit-site care. The other options aren’t as directly tied to the risks of choosing peritoneal dialysis: graft thrombosis is linked to hemodialysis access, while hypertension and seizures are common issues in kidney disease but not PD-specific complications.

Peritoneal dialysis relies on the peritoneal membrane to exchange wastes and fluids, so the most worrisome complication is infection of that space—peritonitis—from contamination of the dialysis solution or catheter. Peritonitis presents with cloudy dialysate, abdominal pain, and sometimes fever; if not addressed quickly, it can damage the peritoneal membrane, reduce dialysis effectiveness, and lead to sepsis. Management emphasizes rapid evaluation of the effluent, culture, and prompt antibiotic therapy delivered into the peritoneal cavity, along with addressing the source and reinforcing sterile technique. Prevention centers on strict aseptic technique during connections and disconnections, diligent hand hygiene, and meticulous exit-site care. The other options aren’t as directly tied to the risks of choosing peritoneal dialysis: graft thrombosis is linked to hemodialysis access, while hypertension and seizures are common issues in kidney disease but not PD-specific complications.