A client is having a peritoneal dialysis treatment. The nurse notes an opaque color to the effluent. What is the priority action by the nurse?
a. Warm the dialysate solution in a microwave before instillation.
b. Take a sample of the effluent and send to the laboratory.
c. Flush the tubing with normal saline to maintain patency of the catheter.
d. Check the peritoneal catheter for kinking and curling.
ANS: B
An opaque or cloudy effluent is the first sign of peritonitis. A sample of the effluent would need to be sent to the laboratory for culture and sensitivity in order to administer the correct antibiotic. Warming the dialysate in a microwave and flushing the tubing are not safe actions by the nurse. Checking the catheter for obstruction is a viable option but will not treat the peritonitis.
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