Risk perception in peritoneal dialysis waste management: contributions for audiovisual material.

OBJECTIVES

to identify the risk perceptions of professionals, patients, and caregivers/family members regarding the proper disposal of waste from home peritoneal dialysis, with a view to verifying content/topics to be considered in the development of audiovisual material intended for patients and healthcare professionals.

METHODS

a qualitative study was conducted, including 17 semi-structured interviews with patients and caregivers, and an online focus group with eight experts in the fields of health, communication, and waste management, and one patient who is a radiologist undergoing peritoneal dialysis. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

RESULTS

doubts were reported regarding proper disposal, lack of standardized guidelines, and suggestions for selective collection and reverse logistics. Two categories emerged: "From care to waste"; and "Communication strategies of healthcare professionals".

FINAL CONSIDERATIONS: the importance of accessible educational strategies, with emphasis on risk communication and health literacy, to promote safe and sustainable practices in home care is highlighted.