Constipation and drainage kinetics in peritoneal dialysis: a nursing perspective on 2 cases.

Abstract

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Constipation is a frequent occurrence in peritoneal dialysis patients. A recent study revealed a 58% prevalence of constipation in patients with end-stage chronic renal failure, underlining the need for better intestinal transit management in this population.
We have 25 years of experience in automated peritoneal dialysis (APD); our center uses weighted catheters and has accepted obese patients since 2021.

We present 2 clinical cases that demonstrate that the study of drainage kinetics recordings gives patients a better understanding of how their dialysis works and promotes treatment compliance. They also demonstrate that the use of individual therapeutic education enables patients to improve their transit management, particularly in the case of psychologically fragile patients experiencing complicated treatment initiation.

Constipation can reduce the effectiveness of peritoneal dialysis and cause peritoneal infections. The article recommends using the Bristol scale and certain questionnaires to assess the severity of constipation. It stresses the importance of therapeutic workshops to increase patient involvement. The visualization of drainage curves helps in understanding the impact of constipation, promoting better management and improved quality of life.

In conclusion, integrating drainage curves into constipation management as part of a therapeutic education approach with APD patients is essential to optimize treatment and reduce complications.