Tidal peritoneal dialysis vs. continuous cyclic peritoneal dialysis: children's preference

The purpose of this survey was to determine if the shorter dialysis time of tidal peritoneal dialysis (TPD) was valuable enough to warrant additional training time and machine assembly. The subjects included 6 children ranging in age from 5-16 years and their parents. Children and parents were taught to use an automated cycler system to provide TPD. Dialysis was limited to 8 hours and overday volumes minimized. Prescriptions were altered to prevent uremia and maintain clearances of urea and creatinine at prior continuous cyclic peritoneal dialysis (CCPD) levels. At 6 months, subjects were surveyed. Subjects felt comfortable with TPD within 6 weeks of training. They preferred the shorter dialysis time. All asked to remain on TPD, which has improved the quality of life for these children and their families by decreasing the amount of time required for dialysis.