Focus on Albumin: Helping to Define Patients at Risk

Of the traditional markers indicating nutritional status in the maintenance dialysis population, Albumin has shown the strongest correlation with patient morbidity and mortality. Recent research has demonstrated that an increase in serum Albumin levels over time is associated with significantly improved survival rates. At Pentec Health, we believe that sustained low Albumin levels (below 3.5 g/dL) necessitate further clinical evaluation to determine whether IDPN or IPN therapy is appropriate.

If traditional repletion efforts have been unsuccessful in elevating the patient’s Albumin levels, we work collaboratively with the patient’s nephrologist, renal dietitian and nurse to recommend and provide IDPN or IPN therapy. Through these efforts, we know we can make an impact on improving the mortality and morbidity of this at-risk patient population.