Dialysis Case Study

Author/s

Josh Caulder, Eric Edwards, Kaitlin Flak, Erin Huml, and Katie Jackson from theBellarmine University Physical Therapy Program's Pathophysiology of Complex Patient Problems Project.

Abstract

A case study on 67-year-old male diabetic with end-stage renal disease receiving dialysis. The objective was to provide physical therapy intervention to a patient receiving dialysis. The patient’s chief complaints included decreased balance, loss of sensation, fear of falling, and decreased endurance during activities of daily living due to the effects of dialysis treatment. Objective measures during evaluation validated these complaints. The patient’s goals were to improve strength, aerobic endurance, balance, and flexibility. Patient education was emphasized during each treatment session. The patient progressed through physical therapy as indicated in the plan of care, with improvements in deficits found during examination. Patients receiving physical therapy during dialysis treatment may have more positive outcomes than those who elect not to participate in therapy.

Patient Characteristics

• Demographic Information: (occupation/vocation, gender, age, etc.)
• Medical diagnosis if applicable
• Co-morbidities
• Previous care or treatment

Examination

• Subjective : Patient History and Systems Review (chief complaints, other relevant medical history, prior or current services related to the current episode, use relative dates i.e. years or months or days relative to onset of injury or start of treatment, patient/family goals)
• Self Report Outcome Measures
• Physical Performance Measures
• Objective : Physical Examination Tests and Measures

Clinical Impression

Our impression of the problem: 1) The patient’s end stage renal disease is incurable, but is being treated through the use of dialysis which causes secondary functional deficits including decreased endurance, decreased strength of upper and lower extremities, impaired balance and coordination, decreased sensation, diminished reflexes, and decreased flexibility. 2) The patient has the following risk factors that may impede physical therapy intervention: advancing age, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and chronic urinary tract infections. The physical therapist will need to be aware of these complications during each treatment session. 3) Patient has LE weakness, decreased balance, decreased sensation, and fear of falling which may contribute to his increased risk of falling.

Summarization of Examination Findings

Working Diagnosis and Targeted Interventions

Intervention

• Phases of Interventions (e.g. protective phase, mobility phase, etc.)
• Dosage and Parameters
• Rationale for Progression
• Co-interventions if applicable (e.g. injection therapy, medications)

Outcomes

Findings Over time

Discussion

Summary Statement which should include related findings in the literature, potential impact on clinical practices

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