What is the most common complication associated with peritoneal dialysis?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Hyperkalemia: Hyperkalemia can occur in clients with kidney failure, but peritoneal dialysis typically helps remove excess potassium. It is not the most common complication associated specifically with this therapy. B. Peritonitis: Peritonitis is the most frequent and serious complication of peritoneal dialysis. It results from infection introduced during the dialysis exchange process, often presenting with abdominal pain, cloudy effluent, fever, and nausea, and requires prompt intervention with antibiotics. C. Hypertension: Hypertension may be present in clients with renal disease, but peritoneal dialysis generally helps control blood pressure by removing excess fluid. D. Weight loss: Some clients may experience weight changes due to fluid shifts or dietary modifications, but weight loss is not a typical complication of peritoneal dialysis and is less clinically significant than infection risk.