The value of preventing constipation in patients treated with peritoneal dialysis: An advanced practice nursing study

Introduction: In 1989, experts developed the Rome criteria classification coupled with the use of the Bristol scale, to objectify the condition of functional constipation.

Background: Nowadays, little is documented in the literature about transit disorders in patients with End-Stage Chronic Renal Failure treated with peritoneal dialysis, even though this causes non-negligible complications on the patient’s morbidityÌ, comfort and quality of life.

Objective: The main objective of our study was to evaluate the prevalence of constipation in CKD patients.

Material and method: We conducted a retrospective multicenter data-driven study.

Results: 74 patient records were analyzed. We found a prevalence of constipation of 58% in patients with CKD.

Discussion: Our results showed that the prevalence of constipation is frequent in patients with CKD. It leads to a significant discomfort for the patient, an additional cost in terms of care and technical procedures and a failure of the peritoneal dialysis technique.

Conclusion: Thus, the prevention of constipation in CKD patients would be relevant to limit complications and ensure a better quality of life.