Challenges facing the renal nursing workforce

Abstract

Haemodialysis (HD) is one form of kidney replacement treatment (KRT) for patients with kidney disease. HD removes fluid and toxins through diffusion and ultrafiltration. Isolated ultrafiltration (Iso Uf) may be performed to facilitate increased fluid removal, improve a patient’s tolerability, and achieve the ultrafiltration goal (UFG). Iso Uf can be performed in association with, or in addition to, standard HD and requires no additional equipment. However, although this type of treatment has been evident for decades, there is minimal current evidence in relation to clinical practice, assessment criteria and process evaluation. Current practice trends are often based on clinical judgement, experience and patient assessment. Inconsistent practices have therefore been raised as an area for investigation in order to define appropriate standards of clinical care. The aim of this paper is to understand current practices in relation to Iso Uf, including assessment criteria, treatment interventions and evaluation strategies, and compare this with currently available literature in order to scope treatment considerations.