What is a distinguishing feature of peritoneal dialysis compared with hemodialysis?

• A. Uses an artificial semipermeable membrane
• B. Requires vascular access
• C. Requires urgent dialysis in all patients
• D. Can be performed at home

Answer: (D)

A key difference is that peritoneal dialysis can be done at home. It uses a catheter placed into the abdominal cavity, where dialysis solution is infused and then drained after wastes diffuse across the natural peritoneal membrane. With proper training, this can be carried out by the patient or a caregiver without needing a dialysis machine or frequent trips to a clinic. Hemodialysis, by contrast, relies on a vascular access point (like a fistula or graft) and a dialysis machine, and is usually performed in a center or in a defined home setting with more complex setup. So the ability to perform the treatment at home is the distinguishing feature. The other options aren’t as characteristic: the membrane in PD is natural, not artificial; vascular access is not required for PD; and urgent dialysis is not required in all patients.