All about Peritoneal Dialysis

Peritoneal Dialysis (PD) is a life-saving treatment for patients with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), using the peritoneum in the abdomen as a filter to remove waste products from the blood. In Australia, PD is a common treatment option for ESRD patients, offering flexibility and autonomy.

 

Peritoneal Dialysis in Australia

Over 2,000 Australians receive PD treatment (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2020)

PD can be administered in:

•  Home-based settings, offering greater flexibility and comfort for patients
•  Automated PD (APD) or Continuous Ambulatory PD (CAPD) modes

 

Automated Peritoneal Dialysis (APD)

A type of PD that uses a machine to perform exchanges while the patient sleeps

APD offers:

• Increased convenience and flexibility
• Improved clearance of waste products
• Reduced manual handling of dialysis solution
• APD can be administered in various modes, including:
  • Intermittent APD (IAPD)
  • Continuous Cycling PD (CCPD)
  • Nocturnal APD (NAPD)

 

Kidney Australia's PD Services

• Administered by qualified Registered Nurses (RNs) and Endorsed Enrolled Nurse (EENs) specialising in peritoneal dialysis
• Personalised care and support
• Regular monitoring and maintenance of PD equipment
• Coordination with healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care
• APD services, including setup, training, and ongoing support

 

Benefits of Peritoneal Dialysis

• Increased flexibility and autonomy
• Reduced travel time and expenses
• Improved quality of life
• Enhanced clinical outcomes

 

References

• Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (2020)

• Australia's health 2020. 

• Kidney Health Australia (2020). Peritoneal Dialysis. 
• Australian Health Ministers' Advisory Council (2019).
• National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards.