Before initiating hemodialysis treatment, what is the most important baseline data the nurse should collect?

Weighing the client to establish a baseline for later comparison is crucial before initiating hemodialysis treatment. This measurement provides essential information about the patient's fluid status and helps determine the amount of fluid that needs to be removed during dialysis sessions. Changes in weight can indicate fluid retention or loss, which is particularly important for patients with kidney failure who may struggle with fluid balance. Accurately tracking this weight over time allows healthcare providers to assess the effectiveness of the dialysis and make necessary adjustments to treatment plans.

Collecting a urine specimen to evaluate kidney function may provide additional information about the kidneys' ability to filter waste, but in cases where hemodialysis is required, urine output might already be severely compromised. Administering scheduled medications right before treatment could be relevant, but it does not take precedence over establishing a baseline weight, since you need to know the patient's fluid status immediately before dialysis. Lastly, although educating the patient about the function of the peritoneum in dialysis is valuable, it does not provide baseline data necessary for the immediate treatment decision-making process. Overall, the baseline weight measurement plays a pivotal role in guiding hemodialysis management and ensuring patient safety.