Question

A patient with ESKD receives continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis. The nurse observes that the dialysate drainage fluid is cloudy. What is the nurse's most appropriate action?

a) Continue with the dialysis procedure as scheduled.
b) Notify the healthcare provider immediately.
c) Assess for signs and symptoms of infection.
d) Administer an antibiotic prophylactically.

Answer 1

The most appropriate action for a nurse when observing cloudy dialysate drainage fluid in a patient with ESKD on dialysis is to assess for signs of infection and then notify the healthcare provider immediately for further instructions.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a patient with End-Stage Kidney Disease (ESKD) receiving continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis has cloudy dialysate drainage fluid, the nurse's most appropriate action is to first assess for signs and symptoms of infection. Cloudiness in the drainage fluid can be indicative of a peritoneal infection or peritonitis, a potential complication of peritoneal dialysis. If signs of infection are present, such as fever, abdominal pain, or unusual odor, the nurse should notify the healthcare provider immediately for further evaluation and treatment, which may include the administration of antibiotics. It is not appropriate to continue with the dialysis procedure as scheduled without addressing the potential infection, nor is it advised to administer antibiotics prophylactically without a confirmed diagnosis and orders from a healthcare provider.