The Organization and Implementation of a Peritoneal Dialysis Program

Abstract

The organization of a chronic peritoneal dialysis program requires careful planning and close collaboration between nurses and doctors. In-center peritoneal dialysis should be used primarily for back-up dialysis of home PD patients with complications, and for those who cannot be dialyzed at home. If a unit has a large number of patients at home, it needs a larger number of in-center nurses to care for the increased numbers of hospitalized patients. The home peritoneal dialysis unit should be located near the center unit. The home nurses should be responsible for training, home visits, for clinics and for monthly tubing changes. The unit also needs a number of auxiliary personnel to complement the work of the training nurses.