Patient Education and Quality of Care in Dialysis Flashcards

Which element of dialysis patient education is most critical for preventing life-threatening complications between sessions?

Answer: Dietary and fluid restriction adherence

Adherence to potassium, phosphorus, and fluid restrictions between sessions directly prevents the most common life-threatening complications such as hyperkalemia and pulmonary edema.

A dialysis nurse notices a patient consistently missing treatments. What is the most appropriate initial intervention?

Answer: Conduct a non-judgmental assessment to identify barriers to attendance

A non-judgmental assessment helps identify and address practical or psychosocial barriers to treatment adherence, which is the first step in patient-centered care.

What is the primary purpose of including the patient in developing their interdialytic weight gain goal?

Answer: To improve adherence through shared decision-making

Shared decision-making in setting weight gain goals improves patient engagement and adherence because patients who participate in their care plan are more likely to follow it.

A dialysis patient reports following their diet strictly but their potassium remains elevated. What assessment should the nurse prioritize?

Answer: Review a detailed 3-day food diary with the patient

A detailed food diary review can uncover hidden dietary potassium sources the patient may not recognize, enabling targeted and effective nutritional counseling.

Which modality of kidney replacement therapy offers the most independence and the ability to work or travel for suitable patients?

Answer: Home peritoneal dialysis (CAPD or APD)

Peritoneal dialysis allows patients to perform dialysis at home or while traveling on their own schedule, supporting greater independence and quality of life.

Which psychosocial factor is most strongly associated with mortality in dialysis patients?

Answer: Depression

Depression is highly prevalent in dialysis patients and is independently associated with increased mortality, hospitalizations, and treatment non-adherence.