Because of difficulties with hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis is initiated to treat a client's uremia. Which finding signals a significant problem during this procedure?

Because of difficulties with hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis is initiated to treat a client's uremia. Which finding signals a significant problem during this procedure?

• A. White blood cell (WBC) count of 20,000/mm3
• B. Hemoglobin 14 g/dL
• C. Platelet count 200,000/mm3
• D. Sodium 140 mEq/L

Answer: (A)

The main concept is recognizing infection as a major complication to watch for during peritoneal dialysis. A white blood cell count of 20,000/mm3 indicates an acute inflammatory response, which can reflect an infection such as peritonitis or a catheter-related infection related to the dialysis procedure. This is a red flag requiring prompt assessment and intervention. The other labs—hemoglobin, platelets, and sodium—are within normal ranges and do not point to an acute dialysis-related problem. So the elevated WBC count is the signal to evaluate for infection, monitor for signs like fever, abdominal pain, or cloudy effluent, and initiate appropriate management.

The main concept is recognizing infection as a major complication to watch for during peritoneal dialysis. A white blood cell count of 20,000/mm3 indicates an acute inflammatory response, which can reflect an infection such as peritonitis or a catheter-related infection related to the dialysis procedure. This is a red flag requiring prompt assessment and intervention. The other labs—hemoglobin, platelets, and sodium—are within normal ranges and do not point to an acute dialysis-related problem. So the elevated WBC count is the signal to evaluate for infection, monitor for signs like fever, abdominal pain, or cloudy effluent, and initiate appropriate management.