Prevention

Often, peritonitis associated with peritoneal dialysis is caused by germs around the tube (catheter). If you're receiving peritoneal dialysis, take the following steps to prevent peritonitis:

• Wash your hands, including underneath your fingernails and between your fingers, before touching the catheter.
• Clean the skin around the catheter with an antiseptic every day.
• Store your supplies in a sanitary area.
• Wear a surgical mask during your dialysis fluid exchanges.
• Talk with your dialysis care team about proper care for your peritoneal dialysis catheter.

If you've had peritonitis before or if you have peritoneal fluid buildup due to a medical condition such as liver cirrhosis, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to prevent peritonitis. If you're taking a proton pump inhibitor, your doctor may ask you to stop taking it.