The Influence of Semi-Fowler's Position on Hemodialysis Complications

Background and Objective: Hemodialysis is the most prevalent therapeutic procedure for end stage renal disease patients. During dialysis patients have to lie in supine position for at least four hours. Putting the patients in other positions may enhance patients' comfort. So, this research was accomplished to investigate the effect of semi-Fowler's position on the hemodialysis complications.

Materials and methods: In this cross-over study 45 patients who were under hemodialysis in Zabol city were conveniently selected and then assigned to two groups. In each group patients were randomly put in one of the supine or semi-Fowlers positions in two sessions of dialysis. Hemodialysis complications including hypertension, nausea, vomiting and muscular cramps were recorded and compared in each position using relevant instruments.

Results: There was no significant difference between supine and semi-Fowler's position in terms of systolic and diastolic blood pressure mean, the occurrence of hypertension, nausea, vomiting and cramp, also the frequency and intensity of vomiting and cramp. However, the frequency, duration and intensity of nausea were significantly less in semi- Fowler's position comparing supine position.

Conclusion: Considering that most of the hemodialysis complications had no differences in two positions, and just some of the complications decreased in semi- Fowler's position, it seems in order to preserve the patients' comfort, nurses can suggest them to choose either supine or semi- Fowler's position. Nevertheless, it is recommended to investigate carefully the other hemodialysis complications in semi- Fowler's position as well.