Preventing repeat hospitalizations in dialysis patients: a call for action.
Hospitalizations are frequent among dialysis patients, and reducing repeat hospitalizations could decrease costs and improve outcomes. Chan et al. found that hemoglobin monitoring along with erythropoietin-stimulating agent dose modification and vitamin D administration reduced the risk of repeat hospitalization. These and other interventions, especially those related to close monitoring immediately after hospitalization and better communication between hospital and dialysis providers to assure continuity of care, should be further explored in observational or randomized studies.
Plantinga
Laura C
LC
Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA. plantingal@medsfgh.ucsf.edu
Jaar
Bernard G
BG
D000740:Anemia / Q000517:prevention & control; D004921:Erythropoietin / Q000008:administration & dosage; D006801:Humans; D007676:Kidney Failure, Chronic / Q000628:therapy*; D010359:Patient Readmission / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006435:Renal Dialysis; D014807:Vitamin D / Q000627:therapeutic use
D004921:Erythropoietin; D014807:Vitamin D