BACKGROUND: The present pilot study assesses a programme of verbal and written fluid balance advice within an out-patient haemodialysis unit. METHODS: Twenty-one haemodialysis patients were followed over three separate 6-week periods. Each 6-week period assessed dietetic and nursing educational input using a stepped approach with interdialytic weight gain (IDWG) as a barometer of patient compliance. Weight gain was statistically examined using the non-parametric Friedman test. RESULTS: Forty-eight per cent of the sample group demonstrated an overall improvement in mean weight gain; however, this was not statistically significant (P=0.504). CONCLUSION: The pilot study suggests that further studies with greater numbers and a control group would have a useful contribution to make in this field.
BACKGROUND: The present pilot study assesses a programme of verbal and written fluid balance advice within an out-patient haemodialysis unit. METHODS: Twenty-one haemodialysis patients were followed over three separate 6-week periods. Each 6-week period assessed dietetic and nursing educational input using a stepped approach with interdialytic weight gain (IDWG) as a barometer of patient compliance. Weight gain was statistically examined using the non-parametric Friedman test. RESULTS: Forty-eight per cent of the sample group demonstrated an overall improvement in mean weight gain; however, this was not statistically significant (P=0.504). CONCLUSION: The pilot study suggests that further studies with greater numbers and a control group would have a useful contribution to make in this field.
Authors: Maya N Clark-Cutaia; Dianxu Ren; Leslie A Hoffman; Linda Snetselaar; Mary Ann Sevick Journal: Top Clin Nutr Date: 2013 Oct-Dec Impact factor: 0.508