What is an indicator of fluid overload in dialysis patients?

Weight gain of more than 4% of body weight (BW) between dialysis treatments is considered an indicator of fluid overload in dialysis patients. This threshold is significant because it reflects the accumulation of excess fluid that the kidneys are unable to excrete effectively.

Dialysis is used to remove waste products and excess fluid from the blood, and patients are typically advised to limit their fluid intake between sessions to avoid complications. When a patient gains more than 4% of their body weight, it suggests that their fluid intake may be exceeding their body's capacity to remove excess fluid, leading to potential health risks such as hypertension, edema, and cardiovascular stress.

The other options do not specifically indicate fluid overload as clearly. For instance, a weight gain of less than 4% BW does not suggest excessive fluid accumulation, while a decrease in blood pressure upon standing could indicate orthostatic hypotension rather than fluid overload. Increased serum creatinine levels often signify renal impairment but are not direct measures of fluid status. Therefore, tracking weight gain as a proxy for fluid overload is a crucial practice in managing patient care in dialysis settings.