What is an essential teaching point for a client receiving peritoneal dialysis (PD)?

Handwashing is a crucial teaching point for a client receiving peritoneal dialysis. This practice helps to prevent infections, particularly peritonitis, which is a serious complication that can arise from the insertion of the dialysis catheter or from performing the dialysis exchanges. Because peritoneal dialysis involves infusing a solution into the peritoneal cavity, maintaining a sterile technique during exchanges is vital. Good hand hygiene reduces the risk of introducing pathogens into the system, thereby safeguarding the patient's health and well-being.

While daily weights, awareness of symptoms of constipation, and dietary restrictions may also be important aspects of managing a client on peritoneal dialysis, they do not carry the same immediate risk of infection as handwashing does. Daily weights can help monitor fluid balance, and dietary considerations may be tailored to the individual's kidney function and nutritional needs, but these are secondary to the fundamental necessity of preventing infection through proper hygiene practices.