Ultrafiltration rate as a nursing-sensitive quality indicator in haemodialysis

Nursing quality indicators are widely used to demonstrate nurses’ contributions to health care. Some studies in nephrology settings have addressed nursing quality, but indicators reflecting the nursing process quality in haemodialysis are lacking. This paper argues for considering ultrafiltration rate as a nursing-sensitive quality indicator in haemodialysis. Strategies and qualifications for considering ultrafiltration rate as a nursing quality indicator are established and discussed. It is argued that the indicator is associated with nursing practice, linked to both morbidity and mortality, and is within the scope of the nurse's responsibility. It is also argued that the indicator could be influenced by other factors than nursing care. Thus, further studies are needed to investigate the association between ultrafiltration rate and patient safety. The introduction of the ultrafiltration rate as a duty specific quality indicator is a coveted measure of nursing care quality in haemodialysis settings.