Professional nurses’ knowledge of prevention and management of peritonitis in renal units

Abstract

Background: Peritoneal dialysis–associated peritonitis remains a serious complication contributing to morbidity, mortality, and treatment failure among patients with end-stage kidney disease. Despite evidence-based guidelines, rising infection rates highlight the need to strengthen professional nurses’ knowledge to improve prevention based on evidence-based guidelines.
Aim: To develop, implement and evaluate an educational intervention to enhance professional nurses’ knowledge regarding the prevention and management of peritonitis in renal units in Nelson Mandela Bay.
Setting: Three renal units in private and public hospitals in Nelson Mandela Bay.
Methods: A quantitative, quasi-experimental one-group pre-test and post-test design was employed. A census sample of n = 37 professional nurses was included. Baseline and post-intervention knowledge were assessed using a structured questionnaire. An educational intervention aligning with the 2022 International Society for Peritoneal Dialysis peritonitis guidelines was implemented. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics with the assistance of a statistician. Validity and reliability were assessed, and ethical considerations were upheld.
Results: Post-intervention knowledge scores improved across all domains. Statistically significant improvements were observed in knowledge related to the definition and measurement of peritonitis (p = 0.011), prevention strategies (p = 0.029), and overall knowledge (p = 0.007), with moderate effect sizes.
Conclusion: A guideline-based educational intervention significantly improved professional nurses’ knowledge of key aspects of peritonitis prevention and recognition. Integrating structured, evidence-based education into renal nursing practice may enhance patient outcomes and promote safer peritoneal dialysis care.
Contribution: This study provides evidence supporting targeted educational interventions to strengthen renal nursing practice and improve adherence to international peritoneal dialysis guidelines.