Evaluation of quality-of-care indicators in hemodialysis

Abstract

Abstract

The main objective of this work is to evaluate quality indicators in hemodialysis in a University Hospital and to propose strategies in order to improve indicators within health interventions related to hemodialysis. Method: Descriptive and exploratory retrospective research, with a quantitative approach. Results and Discussion: The cohort consisted on mainly individuals over 60 years old, single,  male, with a middle school educational level, average income between 1 and 3 minimum wages,  and social security beneficiaries. Indicators accessed were as follows: hemoglobin , Kt/v  and parathormone,  were the ones with the lowest conformity rates; phosphorus  and plasmatic albumin,  were within conformity rates; vascular access infections , primary bloodstream infections, hospital stays and mortality, showed some groups with low conformity rates; matured arteriovenous fistula, use of temporary catheter over 3 months and patients eligible and enrolled for transplantation, showed rates below recommended. Conclusion: The evaluation of hemodialysis quality-of-care indicators allows a broad overview on the quality of the provided service, therefore offering the opportunity to provide effective interventions. It is suggested that more studies on quality-of-care indicators should be conducted to determine main indicators common to different contexts and cohorts.