Which statement best describes peritoneal dialysis?

Peritoneal dialysis is accurately described as a method that relies on the peritoneum—the membrane lining the abdominal cavity—to filter waste products from the blood. This procedure involves introducing a special dialysis solution into the peritoneal cavity through a catheter. Waste products and excess fluids move through the peritoneal membrane into the dialysis solution, which is then drained and discarded. This allows for the removal of toxins and excess substances from the body, mimicking the natural filtering function typically performed by healthy kidneys.

The other options fail to reflect the correct nature of peritoneal dialysis. For instance, the first option refers to hemodialysis, which involves a machine to filter blood, a distinctly different process. The third option suggests that peritoneal dialysis is performed once a week; however, it is usually done daily, depending on the individual's treatment plan. Lastly, while any invasive procedure carries a risk of infection, peritoneal dialysis can indeed lead to infections, such as peritonitis, emphasizing the importance of sterile technique during the procedure.