BONENT STAR Practice Exam - Specialty Training Assessment & Review Prep and Study Guide

Peritonitis is the primary complication associated with peritoneal dialysis because it is an infection of the peritoneum, the membrane lining the abdominal cavity where the dialysis fluid is instilled. This condition can occur when pathogens enter through the catheter used for dialysis, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, and cloudy peritoneal fluid.

The risk of peritonitis is a significant concern because it can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly, including catheter removal, hospitalization, and potentially the need to switch to hemodialysis. Maintaining sterile technique during dialysis exchanges is crucial to minimizing this risk, and monitoring for signs of infection is essential for early detection and treatment.

While electrolyte imbalances, anemia, and fluid overload are important considerations for patients undergoing dialysis, they are more generalized complications and can occur in various forms of dialysis, not exclusively linked to peritoneal dialysis in the way that peritonitis is. Thus, peritonitis stands out as the most specific and significant complication associated with this particular form of treatment.