Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD)

CAPD works by filling your abdomen with a sterile dialysate solution that absorbs waste and extra fluid from your blood. After several hours, you drain the used fluid and replace it with fresh solution. Each drain-and-fill step is called an “exchange.” Most people do about four exchanges per day, spaced throughout the day, and no machine is required.

A single CAPD exchange usually takes 30 to 40 minutes, depending on your drain time and how quickly the new solution flows in. Between exchanges, you can go about your day normally while the dialysate works inside your abdomen.

Yes! CAPD is designed to fit into daily routines. You can do can continue to work,  travel, or just relax at home, as long as you have a clean space and your supplies. Many people appreciate that CAPD does not require a machine, electricity, or alarms, which makes it easy to maintain independence and mobility.

Your CAPD setup includes dialysate bags, a drain bag or line, a connection set, masks or protective supplies, and your peritoneal dialysis catheter. All exchanges are done using gravity and no cycler or equipment stand is required. Your nurse will teach you how to organize supplies and keep your process clean and safe.

The most essential part of CAPD is preventing infection, especially peritonitis. Your nurse will teach you how to keep your connection area clean, recognize early warning signs such as cloudy drain fluid or abdominal pain, and know when to call the care team. With proper technique, most patients perform CAPD safely and confidently.