Patient was educated on dialysis as follows: When kidney function is compromised, patients tend to retain fluid, salts, and other waste products, such as urea and uric acid. Retention of these substances can be overwhelming and toxic to the body. Dialysis is a procedure performed in patients with grossly diminished kidney function. This procedure substitutes the normal kidney function of cleaning the blood of the toxins and excess salts, and fluid. Dialysis is usually performed [...]

Patient was educated on complications of fluid retention in dialysis patients as follows: The most common reason for fluid retention in dialysis patients is noncompliance with limitations recommended on fluid intake. Excess fluid volume in the circulation can result in uncontrolled blood pressure and consequently, can result in episodes of stroke. Fluid backup can occur into the lungs and extremities too and result in episodes of extreme shortness of breath and edema. Excess fluid retained [...]

Patient was instructed on measures to manage thirst in patients with dialysis as follows: Limit salt content in your food. Avoid eating chips and frozen foods, which have lots of salt added. High salt in the food will make the individual feel thirsty and can increase fluid intake. Maintain your environment in the house at cool temperature. Elevated temperatures can make the individual feel more hot and thirsty. Sip on small ice cubes to control [...]

Patient was educated on effects of weight gain in dialysis patients as follows: In individuals on dialysis, the function of fluid regulation and elimination is totally limited to the time of dialysis appointment, as their kidneys are no more functional. All the fluid consumed between two dialysis appointments is retained by the body, increase the patient’s weight and can act as an overload on the heart. Individuals on dialysis are weighed regularly before and after [...]

Patient was educated why compliance should be observed with fluid intake recommendations in dialysis patients as follows: Fluid regulation and waste elimination in a normal individual is an ongoing and continuous function, performed by the healthy kidneys. Since it is a continuous process, backup of fluid does not happen and so, there is no need for fluid limitation. In individuals on dialysis, this function is totally limited to the time of dialysis appointment, three appointments [...]