Document Type
DNP Project
Department
School of Nursing
Date of Degree
Spring 2025
Degree
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Primary Advisor
Karen Whitt, Ph.D., APRN, FNP-C, AGN-BC, FAANP
Keywords
Chronic Kidney Disease; Electrolyte intake; KidneyDiet application
Abstract
Background: Managing fluid and electrolyte intake poses a significant challenge for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) patients, resulting in health complications, preventable hospitalizations, and increased healthcare costs.
Aim/Objectives: This project aimed to use the KidneyDiet mobile application to improve fluid, electrolyte, and weight management and reduce hospitalizations in CKD patients and assess patient satisfaction with the app.
Methods: The project involved 33 adult CKD stage 4 and 5 patients identified at one primary care practice, with 18 attending application training. Eight active participants utilized the app to track daily intake of fluid, sodium, potassium, and phosphorus over 30–90 days. Data on pre and post weight, compliance and hospital admissions were collected through follow-ups and a post-survey. Descriptive statistics compared intake data to Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcome (KDIGO) guidelines.
Results: Compliance with fluid intake was above average, with 63.89% of stage 5 patients meeting the target of less than 1,000 mL, and 66.6% of stage 4 patients adhering to the goal of less than 2,000 mL. Additionally, 72.46% of participants met sodium intake goals, and 75% maintained phosphorus levels within the desired range. Potassium intake was also at the goal, with 70% of the participants meeting their guidelines and only 28.75% not meeting the goal, which could have significantly reduced cardiac risks. Weight data indicated a slight average decrease from 178 lbs to 176 lbs among the seven participants. Patient satisfaction surveys revealed an overall satisfaction rate of 71% with the app; nevertheless, 57% of users expressed dissatisfaction with its usability. Importantly, there were no hospital admissions related to electrolyte imbalances or fluid overload during the 30 to 90-day project period.
Conclusion/recommendation: As indicated in the results, the application was useful in managing weight, fluid intake, and electrolyte imbalance. The application allowed patients to still enjoy the foods they like, but in moderation. It also showed them which foods they should completely avoid. Even though the application was useful, frequent patient follow-ups and ongoing education are crucial. Recommendations include improving app usability, enhancing educational support, and facilitating regular follow-ups with healthcare providers to promote dietary adherence. It is also important to have ongoing research and to improve technology in chronic disease management. healthcare systems should refine these tools to promote adherence and improve health outcomes for CKD patients. Ultimately, investing in innovative technological solutions can lead to reduced hospitalization rates and lower healthcare costs, thereby advancing public health.
Copyright Notice
©2025 Wubit Raru. All rights reserved.
Recommended Citation
Raru, W. T. (2025). Improving Fluid and Electrolyte Intake in Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Patients: Integrating a Mobile Application. , (). Retrieved from https://hsrc.himmelfarb.gwu.edu/son_dnp/185
Open Access
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