Which of the following is a red flag for a patient on peritoneal dialysis during activity?

• A. Abdominal pain
• B. Headache
• C. Cough during activity
• D. Drowsiness after meals

Answer: (A)

Abdominal pain during activity is a red flag for someone on peritoneal dialysis because it can signal peritonitis or other intra-abdominal problems related to the dialysate or catheter. Peritonitis is a serious PD complication, and early symptoms include abdominal pain, fever, nausea, vomiting, and cloudy dialysate. If this occurs, the PD exchange is typically paused and the patient needs prompt evaluation with samples sent for culture and appropriate antibiotics started if indicated. The other options—headache, cough during activity, and drowsiness after meals—are not specific red flags for PD-related emergencies during activity and can have unrelated causes. Quick recognition of abdominal pain as a potential infection helps prevent progression to more serious illness and ensures timely treatment.