Page 1847 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

6. Heparin is added to the dialysate solution to prevent
clotting of the catheter.
7. Prophylactic antibiotics may be added to the dialysate
solution to prevent peritonitis.
8. Insulin may be added to the dialysate solution for the
client with diabetes mellitus.

E. PD infusion

1. Description
a. One infusion (fill), dwell, and drain is
considered 1 exchange.
b. Fill: 1 to 2 L of dialysate as prescribed is
infused by gravity into the peritoneal
space, which usually takes 10 to 20
minutes.
c. Dwell time: The amount of time that the
dialysate solution remains in the
peritoneal cavity is prescribed by the
PHCP and can last 20 to 30 minutes to
8 or more hours, depending on the
type of dialysis used.
d. Drain (outflow): Fluid drains out of
body by gravity into the drainage bag.
2. Interventions before treatment

a. Monitor vital signs.
b. Monitor daily weight on the same scale.
c. Have the client void, if possible.
d. Assess electrolyte and glucose levels.
e. Assess the peritoneal catheter dressing
and site.

3. Interventions during treatment

a. Monitor vital signs.
b. Monitor for respiratory distress, pain,
or discomfort.
c. Monitor for signs of pulmonary edema.
d. Monitor for hypotension and
hypertension.
e. Monitor for malaise, nausea, and
vomiting.
f. Assess the catheter site dressing for
wetness or bleeding.
g. Monitor dwell time as prescribed by the
PHCP.

h. Do not allow dwell time to

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