Final answer:
The osmotic agent used in peritoneal dialysis is typically dextrose, but Icodextrin solution can also be used, especially for long dwell exchanges in automated peritoneal dialysis or continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis.
Step-by-step explanation:
For peritoneal dialysis, the osmotic agent commonly used in dialysis exchanges is dextrose. This is because an osmotic gradient must be created to allow the removal of waste products like urea from the blood. Isotonic solutions like normal saline often do not provide sufficient osmotic pressure. However, Icodextrin solution is also another osmotic agent used in peritoneal dialysis, particularly during long dwell exchanges in automated peritoneal dialysis (APD) or continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). It is a colloidal osmotic agent that works over several hours, making it suitable for these prolonged exchanges. Amino acid solutions are less commonly used but can be an alternative to dextrose, providing a protein sparing effect in some patients.