Pregnancy and dialysis: an overview.

The occurrence of pregnancy in women with chronic kidney disease undergoing dialysis is still uncommon; however, women in this population do become pregnant and need management by renal and high-risk obstetric teams to promote best outcomes. This article discusses recommendations for medical considerations, the dialysis regimen, medications used, medical nutrition therapy, and the assessment of dry weight gain. Most recommendations are based upon case experience.

Nutritional management of pregnancy in chronic kidney disease.

The nutritional management of pregnant adults with chronic kidney disease (CKD) presents the challenge of combining necessary modifications in nutrient requirements for both pregnancy and kidney impairment. The dietitian must follow these women closely to ensure adequate intakes of kilocalories, protein, and specific vitamins and minerals. Combining the suggested energy and protein needs for CKD recommended by the Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (K/DOQI) guidelines with those for the general population seems feasible during pregnancy.

Non-dietary causes of hyperkalemia.

This discussion is not all inclusive of nondietary causes of hyperkalemia, but is meant to alert healthcare providers to possible factors other than excessive dietary potassium intake.