Risk Factors Associated with Peritoneal Cavity Loss in a Population from Northeastern Mexico

Background: Peritonitis associated with peritoneal dialysis (PD) is a serious complication. Inadequate training in the dialysis exchange technique is a significant risk factor, increasing the likelihood of contamination and subsequent infection. Methods: Data were collected from medical records between January 2024, and January 2025, from patients admitted with a diagnosis of peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis. The following variables were recorded as potential risk factors: time on dialysis, type of dialysis solution used, serum potassium, and albumin levels. Additionally, a retrospective telephone questionnaire was administered to the primary caregiver to assess understanding of the peritoneal dialysis process. The questionnaire consisted of the following five questions: whether training was received, number of training sessions, number of individuals trained, number of people handling the patient’s catheter, and knowledge of the handwashing technique. Results: Data from 52 patients were collected, with ages ranging from 27 to 61 years (mean age: 47). The sample included 26 men and 26 women. Time on peritoneal dialysis ranged from 4 months to 4 years, with a mean time of 1 year. All 52 patients reported that only one caregiver had received formal training. The number of training sessions varied between 2 and 6, with an average of 3 sessions reported by 38% of the patients. Microbiological analysis revealed a predominance of gram-negative bacteria, with Pseudomonas spp. being the most frequently isolated pathogen. Clinical outcomes varied; 38% of patients experienced loss of peritoneal cavity function and required conversion to hemodialysis. Conclusion: In patients who lost peritoneal cavity functionality, their primary caretaker had received fewer training sessions than those recommended by clinical guidelines, with only 2 sessions. Additionally, these patients had a greater number of individuals handling the catheter (average of 2), despite only one person having received formal training. Timely identification of the causative pathogen, along with proper training in the peritoneal dialysis exchange technique, is essential to reduce the risk of infection, prevent complications, and preserve peritoneal cavity function.