Abstract
Objective
Peritonitis is the leading cause of technique failure in pediatric patients on peritoneal dialysis. A survey was developed to determine what impact, if any, training practices and staffing patterns have on peritonitis rates in pediatric patients.
Design
A survey developed by the International Society for Peritoneal Dialysis Advisory Committee on Peritonitis Management in Pediatric Patients.
Patients
The survey was distributed to 168 centers and was completed by 76 (45%) centers. A total of 597 children younger than 21 years of age received peritoneal dialysis in these centers.
Results
The peritonitis rate was significantly lower (1 episode/19.9 months vs 1 episode/13.5 months; p < 0.05) in programs characterized by larger patient numbers (≥ 15 patients vs < 15 patients) and longer training time dedicated to theory and practical/technical skills (p < 0.01).
Conclusion
Peritoneal dialysis training is an important factor that influences the rate of peritonitis. The results of this survey reinforce the value of the time committed to this effort.
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