Pediatric peritoneal dialysis training: Characteristics and impact on peritonitis rates

Objective: Peritonitis is the leading cause of technique failure in pediatr ic patients on peritoneal dialysis. A survey was developed to determine wha t impact, if any, training practices and staffing patterns have on peritoni tis rates in pediatric patients. Design: A survey developed by the International Society for Peritoneal Dial ysis Advisory Committee on Peritonitis Management in Pediatric Patients. Patients:The survey was distributed to 168 centers and was completed by 76 (45%) centers. A total of 597 children younger than 21 years of age receive d peritoneal dialysis in these centers. Results: The peritonitis rate was significantly lower (1 episode/19.9 month s vs 1 episode/13.5 months; p < 0.05) in programs characterized by larger p atient numbers (greater than or equal to 15 patients vs < 15 patients) and longer training time dedicated to theory and practical/technical skills (p < 0.01). Conclusion: Peritoneal dialysis training is an important factor that influe nces the rate of peritonitis. The results of this survey reinforce the valu e of the time committed to this effort.