What would a paramedic anticipate in a patient with a complication related to chronic ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD)?

In patients undergoing chronic ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD), the presence of a catheter placed in the abdomen is a vital aspect of their treatment. This catheter is essential for the dialysis process as it allows the dialysate solution to enter and exit the peritoneal cavity, facilitating the removal of waste products and excess fluid from the body.

When patients experience complications associated with CAPD, the presence of the catheter is significant, as it can be a source of infection, obstruction, or leakage—complications that can lead to discomfort or further medical issues. Hence, a paramedic would recognize that a catheter in the abdomen is a standard and critical element in the management of these patients, leading to considerations of its potential problems.

In contrast, changes in urine color, elevated heart rate, and decreased skin turgor could be secondary signs due to other underlying issues, but they do not directly address the specific complications associated with the catheter used in CAPD. While these signs could be relevant in a more generalized assessment of the patient's condition, they do not focus specifically on the complications arising from the dialysis method itself.