Targeted Education ApproaCH to Improve Peritoneal Dialysis Outcomes Cluster Randomised Controlled Trial (CRCT)

In Australia and New Zealand peritoneal dialysis-related infections are the major causes of peritoneal dialysis technique failure. The burden of peritoneal dialysis-related infections, such as recurrent or severe exit site infections and peritonitis, is both high and unacceptably variable between different centres, with the variation appearing to be driven by centre-related factors rather than patient-related factors. Some of the centre-specific disparity in outcomes, including peritonitis rates, has been attributed to variable attention paid by centres to potentially modifiable peritonitis risk factors, including training practices.

The TEACH‑PD training modules have been developed by a core group of kidney nurses from the HOME Network (THN) in conjunction with senior medical clinicians from the Australasian Kidney Trials Network (AKTN), eLearning curriculum developers, consumer representatives, and education experts, in line with the ISPD guidelines, utilising modern adult learning principles and best practice eLearning techniques. The modules will be implemented at peritoneal dialysis units in Australia and New Zealand to formally evaluate whether, compared with standard care, a standardised training curriculum will reduce the rate of peritoneal dialysis-related infections and improve technique survival, resulting in better outcomes for patients receiving peritoneal dialysis and significant cost-savings to the community.

Over 350 people in Aotearoa New Zealand participated across 11 hospitals. Follow up and analysis will finish in 2025.