Components of A Successful Peritoneal Dialysis Program

Abstract

Although varying widely among different countries and geographic regions, the development of peritoneal dialysis invariably requires a well-established program. Key ingredients for the successful delivery of this therapy include adequate chronic kidney disease education, governmental or nongovernmental reimbursement, qualified physicians and nurses trained in the principles and practice of peritoneal dialysis, clinical management that incorporates an excellent and well-trained peritoneal dialysis team, a feasible and well-designed program for catheter insertion, a sound patient training and follow-up scheme, and continuous quality improvement. Some programs are enhanced by an active clinical research portfolio and other appropriate supportive systems. All of these factors are interlinked and inseparable from one another in ensuring a high-quality peritoneal dialysis program.

Keywords: End-stage renal disease; clinical governance; continuous quality improvement; peritoneal dialysis.