Peritoneal Dialysis in High-Risk Occupations.

Abstract

Renal Replacement Therapy (RRT), involving two modalities of dialysis, namely haemodialysis (HD) and/or peritoneal dialysis (PD) remain the mainstay of therapy for patients with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) worldwide. The goals of renal replacement therapy are multi-pronged. They are not only limited to ensuring patient survival, but also improving patient overall well-being and quality of life. The relationship between employment and quality of life are often closely linked.  Peritoneal dialysis provides patients with greater flexibility, independence and control over their treatment. This is particularly advantageous to the working ESKD patients. On the other hand, HD sessions can often interfere with work schedules due to HD facility attendance and the duration of each session. This case report highlights PD and its impact on improved quality of life by specifically supporting the case patient ‘s ability to maintain employment as a commercial truck driver. In addition, it edifies both ESRD patients and clinicians, particularly in developing countries, on the advantages of PD. These advantages extend beyond the physiological preservation of residual renal function and patient survival, but also embody the improvement of the overall well-being and quality of patients’ lives by broadening the employment horizon of patients in even high-risk occupations such as commercial truck driving.