What Exercise is Appropriate for those on Haemodialysis?
Background: Exercise has been shown to be positively associated with physical and psychological health. However what exercise is appropriate for those on haemodialysis programs which will produce the best outcomes for the patient with the least risk of injury. This paper will discuss the rationale behind the development of a progressive resistance exercise training program for people on haemodialysis.
Purpose: This study was a pilot study of a planned and supervised exercise program for haemodialysis patients. The total pilot sample was 10 haemodialysis patients across two dialysis units.
Results: This presentation will present the results of this pilot exercise program. This presentation will discuss the decision making process and outcomes in developing and implementing the exercise program. Issues for discussion include: Why did we choose resistance over aerobic exercises? What is good exercise form and why is that important? What outcomes do we want from an exercise program for haemodialysis patients? How do we know when enough exercise is enough? How do we define compliance with the program and adverse events associated with the program? Who should design and supervise the exercise program?
Conclusion: This pilot project provides valuable information for the development of exercise programs into functioning haemodialysis units, and also highlights the benefits of a collaborative team approach to the development and implementation of the program which has led to very positive outcomes for the patients.