Intraperitoneal therapy via the Tenckhoff catheter. Prevention and management of complications

Mathematical modeling and clinical trials have increased the use of intraperitoneal (IP) therapy in cancer care. A direct result of this increase in IP therapy research is an increasing use of access devices. One of the most commonly selected access devices is the Tenckoff catheter. The prevention and management of complications of IP therapy via the Tenckhoff catheter are nursing's responsibility. Complications include peritonitis, catheter occlusion, exit site infections, leakage of fluid from around the catheter, and chemical peritonitis. Nurses' expertise in this area as clinicians and patient educators contributes to the success of IP therapy.