Clinical Indicators Of Nutrition In Hemodialysis Clients

Background: Nutritional aspects are relevant to reduce the morbidity and mortality of the hemodialysis clientele. Thus, the identification of clinical indicators of nutritionis fundamental to guide a qualified care. This study aimed to verify the occurrence of clinical nutritional indicators in patients undergoing hemodialysis. Cross-sectional study. Methods and Findings: The study was carried out with 50 patients in a hospital in northeastern Brazil selected by convenience. Collection took place through an interview form and physical examination from December 2013 to May 2014. Results were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Thirty three clinical indicators of nutrition were identified, and rates exceeded 50%. Among these, Altered blood pressure was present in 100% of the sample. Six indicators showed rates above 90%, namely: Anxiety, Azotemia, Thirst, Decreased hemoglobin, Regular nutrition and Lack of information. The limitation of the study relates to the fact that this was developed in a single center. Conclusion: Clinical indicators of nutrition are common among hemodialysis customers and relate to electrolyte and nutritional disorders. The identification of these indicators allows the appreciation of nutritional nursing phenomena and consequent effective interventions and positive responses regarding nutrition safety of hemodialysis patients.