A nurse is teaching a client who has chronic kidney disease about the process of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?

Choice A rationale Peritoneal dialysis utilizes the semipermeable peritoneal membrane within the abdomen to facilitate the diffusion and osmosis of solutes and water, whereas hemodialysis specifically employs an external synthetic dialyzer to filter blood. This explanation clarifies that the mechanical device mentioned is characteristic of hemodialysis rather than the ambulatory peritoneal method being discussed. Consequently, the physiological process relies on the natural lining of the body to clear metabolic waste products. Choice B rationale Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis is designed to provide greater flexibility for the patient, as exchanges can be performed manually throughout the day rather than adhering to the rigid, fixed schedules required by clinical hemodialysis centers. While consistency is encouraged to maintain steady electrolyte levels, the primary benefit of the ambulatory approach is the lack of a strict time constraint. This allows patients to integrate their medical treatment more seamlessly into their daily lives. Choice C rationale Prior abdominal surgeries often result in the formation of peritoneal adhesions or scar tissue, which can significantly reduce the surface area available for effective solute exchange and fluid removal. These structural changes may impede the placement of the dialysis catheter or cause uneven distribution of the dialysate within the cavity. Therefore, patients with such history are frequently redirected toward hemodialysis to ensure adequate clearance of toxins and to avoid surgical complications. Choice D rationale Because peritoneal dialysis is performed continuously or multiple times daily, it results in more stable blood chemistry levels and lower fluctuations of fluid volume compared to intermittent hemodialysis. This constant clearance allows patients to consume more dietary potassium and sodium while maintaining a less restrictive fluid intake limit. The physiological stability provided by the continuous nature of the exchange process effectively reduces the burden of severe nutritional and hydration limitations.