Epoetin alfa: focus on maintaining a higher, stable, Hct. Case study of the anemic patient
Cohen, J.A.; Brattich, M.
Anna Journal 24(5): 574-580; Quiz 581
1997
ISSN/ISBN: 8750-0779 PMID: 9392740 Document Number: 475954
Clinical evidence indicates that maintaining a stable hematocrit (Hct) higher in the target range of 30% to 36% can lead to improvement in overall patient outcomes. On the basis of these data, a recent analysis by the Dialysis Outcomes Quality Initiative Anemia Work Group has recommended a target Hct of 33% to 36% (hemoglobin 11 g/dl to 12 g/dl). Maintaining a stable Hct higher in the target range provides nurses and other dialysis clinicians with two benefits: improved patient care and decreased time and costs for patient management. This article focuses on the data supporting such a policy. Clinical practices from two prominent dialysis centers are presented as models of good anemia management.