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Published on: October 2, 2020
Cognitive performance before and during hemodialysis: a randomized cross-over trial
David A Drew1, Hocine Tighiouart, Tammy M Scott
1Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Mass., USA.
Cognitive performance in hemodialysis patients does not differ when tested before or during dialysis. This finding supports the validity of cognitive assessments conducted during the first hour of hemodialysis (HD).
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Neuropsychology
- Clinical Research
Background:
- Hemodialysis (HD) patients receive education during treatment.
- Limited research exists on cognitive function variations during dialysis sessions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate whether cognitive performance differs when assessed before versus during hemodialysis.
- To determine the validity of cognitive testing during the initial hour of HD.
Main Methods:
- A randomized cross-over study involving 40 HD patients.
- Cognitive tests administered 1 hour before and during the first hour of dialysis.
- Mixed regression models used to analyze dialysis effects and learning effects.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in cognitive test performance was observed between testing before and during hemodialysis (p > 0.05).
- A learning effect was noted for Word List Learning and Digit Symbol Substitution Test between repeated administrations.
Conclusions:
- Cognitive assessments performed during the first hour of hemodialysis are valid.
- The timing of cognitive testing (before vs. during HD) does not impact patient performance.
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