RESUMO
Our statistics reveal the average patient in our study to be a young black male with a history of IVDA with CAPD as the initial dialysis modality. He was most often trained on a mechanical assist device, but he still developed frequent peritonitis episodes, predominantly gram positive. His survival rate was less than 2 years, but he was able to remain independent until he died. Our fears about caring for the HIV infected individual cannot be denied. Even though we may never be truly comfortable when caring for someone with this disease, it is possible to train them to perform home peritoneal dialysis safely and effectively. By doing this, we can preserve the patients' independence and maintain their dignity while they cope with this overwhelming illness.