BIS

Patients with kidney failure depend on hemodialysis treatment for body-hydration balance. Chronic overhydration, or increased fluid in the extracellular compartment, may have detrimental effects, such as hypertension, altered cardiac structure, and cardiac failure. Bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS) is a non-invasive technique used to measure whole-body hydration status. Additionally, a major determinant of fluid gains between dialysis sessions is sodium consumption, which is a key driver of thirst and fluid intake. Therefore, the objective of this observational study is to measure whole-body hydration status and sodium intake of hemodialysis patients from the local dialysis units. Additionally, chronic overhydration may be associated with an increased risk for falls. Therefore, prospective questions regarding falls will be asked on a weekly basis. This data will serve to develop further interventions to prevent overhydration in maintenance hemodialysis patients.