Risk factors for hospitalization among older, incident haemodialysis patients

Kimberly L. Schoonover, Latonya J. Hickson, Suzanne M. Norby, Marie C. Hogan, Sanjay Chaudhary, Robert C. Albright, John J. Dillon, James T. McCarthy, Amy W. Williams

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

21 Scopus citations

Abstract

Aims The number of elderly persons with end-stage renal disease is increasing with many requiring hospitalizations. This study examines the causes and predictors of hospitalization in older haemodialysis patients. Methods We reviewed hospitalizations of older (≥65 years) incident chronic haemodialysis patients initiating therapy between 1 January 2007 and 31 December 2009 under the care of a single Midwestern United States dialysis provider. Results Of 125 patients, the mean age was 76 ± 7 years and 72% were male. At first dialysis, 68% used a central venous catheter (CVC) and 51% were in the hospital. Mean follow-up was 1.8 ± 1.0 years. At least one hospitalization occurred in 89 (71%) patients and half of all patients were hospitalized once within the first 223 days. Total hospital admission rate was 1.48 per patient year with hospital days totalling 8.54 days per patient year. The three most common reasons for first admission were cardiac (33%), infection (18%) and gastrointestinal (12%). Predictors of future hospitalization included the first dialysis occurring in hospital (hazard ratios (HR) 2.1, 95% CI 1.4-3.3, P = 0.0005) and the use of a CVC at first haemodialysis (HR 2.6, CI 1.6-4.4, P < 0.0001). Conclusion Hospitalizations are common in older incident haemodialysis patients. Access preparation and overall burden of illness leading to the initial hospitalization appear to play a role. Identification of additional factors associated with hospitalization will allow for focused interventions to reduce hospitalization rates and increase the value of care. Summary at a Glance This study identifies potential factors associated with the frequency and timing of hospitalizations in older patients commencing dialysis, including use of a CVC and initial dialysis when hospitalized. Hospitalizations were mainly because of cardiac and infectious aetiology.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)712-717
Number of pages6
JournalNephrology
Volume18
Issue number11
DOIs
StatePublished - 2013

Keywords

  • arteriovenous fistula
  • cardiovascular disease
  • dialysis access
  • geriatric nephrology
  • mortality

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Nephrology

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