What is the protein requirement for a stable patient receiving peritoneal dialysis (PD)?

• A. 0.6-0.8 g/kg/d
• B. 1.2-1.3 g/kg/d
• C. 1.5-1.8 g/kg/d
• D. 2.0-2.2 g/kg/d

Answer: (B)

Protein needs for a patient on peritoneal dialysis must account for protein losses occurring with the dialysis fluid. These losses mean the body has to replace more protein to maintain nitrogen balance and prevent protein-energy wasting. For a stable PD patient, the best-supported intake is about 1.2–1.3 g of protein per kilogram of body weight each day. This level provides enough amino acids to offset daily losses and support tissue maintenance without overloading nitrogen, which the dialysis process can’t clear if intake is excessive.

If intake were too low, the patient wouldn’t replace what’s lost and could become malnourished. If it were much higher than needed, it generally won’t confer extra benefit and could raise waste products that need to be removed by dialysis. In practice, ensuring adequate energy intake (to spare protein, roughly sufficient calories daily) supports using this protein allowance effectively.