Why is it critical to assess a patient’s laboratory results before dialysis?

Assessing a patient’s laboratory results before dialysis is essential for tailoring dialysis treatment and adjusting medications. Each patient's physiological response to dialysis and their specific medical conditions may require personalized adjustments. For instance, laboratory results can reveal a patient's electrolyte levels, fluid balance, and other metabolic indicators that inform the healthcare team on how to customize the dialysis session, including the duration, frequency, and type of dialysis required.

Data from laboratory results also guide healthcare providers in managing medications that may need to be altered based on the patient's current laboratory values. For example, if a patient's potassium levels are elevated, certain medications or dialysis modalities may need to be adjusted to prevent complications.

While the timing of the next dialysis session, dietary planning for patients, and scheduling follow-up appointments are important aspects of care, these activities are not as directly influenced by the laboratory results as tailoring treatment and medications. Therefore, the focus on laboratory results directly impacts the safety and effectiveness of the dialysis treatment provided to the patient.