Analysis of the nursing diagnosis of excess fluid volume in individuals undergoing hemodialysis: A cross-sectional study

Introduction: Monitoring renal patients for fluid overload is essential to prevent complications, ensure appropriate treatment, and maintain overall health. Objective: To analyze the prevalence and associations of the defining characteristics of the nursing diagnosis excess fluid volume in individuals with chronic kidney disease undergoing hemodialysis. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 92 patients at a dialysis clinic in a city in northeastern Brazil. Patients were assessed through interviews and physical examinations. Results: The most prevalent defining characteristics were azotemia (100%), altered blood pressure (96.74%), intake exceeding output (91.31%), edema (85.87%), decreased hemoglobin (66.30%), weight gain over a short period of time (54.35%), and oliguria (40.22%). Conclusion: Early identification of azotemia, altered blood pressure, intake exceeding output, edema, decreased hemoglobin, rapid weight gain, and oliguria supports the diagnosis and proper management of excess fluid volume, and contributes to the effectiveness of the hemodialysis regimen.