Knowledge and experience of peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Knowledge, understanding and experiences of peritonitis amongst patients undertaking peritoneal dialysis and their families
IRAS ID
216219
Contact name
Jessica Baillie
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Cardiff University
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 1 months, 4 days
Research summary
End-stage renal disease (ESRD) is an irreversible loss of kidney function, treated with dialysis or kidney transplant. Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is a home-based treatment performed by the patient or relative, involving dialysing solution inserted into the abdomen (peritoneal cavity). With increasing numbers of patients requiring treatment for ESRD, the use of PD is being promoted (1).
Infection of the peritoneal membrane (peritonitis) is a considerable problem in this population, leading to antibiotic use, hospital admission and decreased quality of life. Peritonitis requires some individuals to stop using PD and can be fatal. The Chief Investigator’s previous research, exploring patients’ and families’ experiences of PD, identified some unfamiliarity with the signs of peritonitis (2). However, a lack of evidence considers patients’ (and families) understanding and experiences of PD–associated peritonitis.
The aim of this study is to examine patients’ and families’ knowledge, understanding and experiences of PD-associated peritonitis. The study will encompass two phases:
Phase One: an online questionnaire has been developed and will be sent to adults (or their relatives) receiving PD at four sites in England and Wales (Cardiff, Swansea, Bristol and Exeter). The questionnaire assess their knowledge and understanding of peritonitis. Data will be analysed statistically.
Phase Two: In-depth qualitative interviews will be conducted in person/over the telephone with a sample of Phase One participants to further explore their knowledge, understanding and experiences of peritonitis. The data will be analysed thematically.The data from the two phases will be synthesised to identify patients’ and families’ peritonitis information and support needs.
1. Wankowicz Z. Peritoneal dialysis and its role in the demography and epidemiology of chronic kidney disease. Polskie Archiwum Medycyny Wewnetrznej (Polish Archives of Internal Medicine). 2009;119:810-4.
2. Baillie J, Lankshear A. Patients’ and relatives’ experiences of peritonitis when using peritoneal dialysis. Journal of Renal Care. 2015;doi: 10.1111/jorc.12118.REC name
South Central - Hampshire A Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/SC/0140
Date of REC Opinion
27 Mar 2017
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion