Successful PD depends on having a peritoneal catheter (access) which works well. A well functioning catheter allows infusion of two liters of dialysate in 10 minutes and adequate drainage in 15-20 minutes. Poorly functioning catheters may contribute to inadequate dialysis as well as many visits to the unit, most of which can be avoided if problems are corrected early. Talk with the doctor and PD staff about the access and ask them to make sure it is working properly. If the catheter exit site feels tender, shows redness or shows yellowish drainage or pus, it may be an exit site infection, and the patient needs to talk with the doctor or PD nurse when he/she first notices it.
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