Training programs for families of children on home peritoneal dialysis: a scoping review

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is the preferred home dialysis treatment for children awaiting kidney transplant worldwide. There is significant variance in clinical outcomes across centers, which may be related to PD training for caregivers. This scoping review provides an overview of existing research regarding characteristics of training provided to caregivers of children receiving home PD.

Searches were conducted via PubMed, Embase, CENTRAL, PsycINFO, CINHAL and ProQuest electronic databases (2005-2025). Studies in children under 21 years of age were included. Characteristics of training programs were summarized and compared against the International Society of Peritoneal Dialysis (ISPD) pediatric guidelines. Implementation, clinical and service outcomes were reported. Relationships between training program characteristics and the child and family were also reviewed.

Twelve articles met inclusion criteria. Overall, there was poor alignment with existing guidelines. Training programs were reported in most articles (n = 9; 75%); however, few (n = 2; 16%) clearly defined training with objectives and criteria. Most studies reported the use of training tools (n = 10; 83%), training ratios (n = 9; 75%), and nurses as trainers (n = 9; 75%). Learning styles assessment and training hours per day were underreported, and no publications discussed tools to assess health literacy. The most frequently reported clinical outcome was peritonitis rates (n = 10; 83%). Family or child level outcomes were absent from the data.

Pediatric PD training practices varied significantly among studies, and alignment with existing guideline recommendations was limited. The relationship between caregiver training and child and family outcomes warrants further investigation.