Final answer:
Patients who dialyze at home are at high risk for peritonitis, which is the inflammation of the peritoneum. Proper sterile technique and prompt reporting of any signs of infection are important for these patients.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of infection that patients who dialyze at home are at high risk for is Peritonitis. Peritonitis is the inflammation of the peritoneum, which is the membrane lining the abdominal cavity and covering the abdominal organs. In patients who dialyze at home using peritoneal dialysis, there is a risk of contamination of the peritoneal cavity, which can lead to peritonitis.
During peritoneal dialysis, a catheter is inserted into the peritoneal cavity to allow the exchange of fluid. If the catheter becomes contaminated with bacteria or if proper sterile technique is not followed during the dialysis procedure, bacteria can enter the peritoneal cavity and cause an infection. Peritonitis can be serious and may require hospitalization and antibiotic treatment.
It is important for patients who dialyze at home to follow strict sterile technique and to report any signs or symptoms of infection to their healthcare provider.