Pharmacists role in managing fluid balance/BP
Hypertension is a common problem in many patients starting haemodialysis.
Medication is the treatment of choice for pre-dialysis hypertension and despite
use of multiple antihypertensive agents blood pressure targets are often not
achieved.
We have previously reported our initial work related to hypertension and fluid
balance (BRS 2003). Effective management of fluid balance results in
improved blood pressure control and a reduction in the range of
antihypertensive medications required to maintain adequate blood pressure.
The session will describe a practical approach to review of antihypertensive
medication and involvement of the multidisciplinary team to manage fluid
balance and systematically reduce the number of antihypertensive medicines
required.
Lynn Ridley
Renal Pharmacist
York Hospital