Outcomes of Hospital-Acquired Hypernatremia

What is it about?

The study examines the prevalence and consequences of high sodium levels acquired by patients during their hospital stay. Researchers wanted to understand how this condition affects patient outcomes, especially those with or without chronic kidney disease (CKD)._x000D_ The data for the study included over 1.7 million patients treated between 2000 and 2018. The research team looked at sodium levels above 145 mEq/L to define hypernatremia and used statistical models to compare patient outcomes._x000D_ They found that 6% of all hospitalized patients developed high sodium levels after being admitted. Among these patients, the in-hospital death rate was significantly higher (12%) compared to those who maintained normal sodium levels (1%)._x000D_ Patients with high sodium levels were more likely to die in the hospital, be discharged to hospice care, or be sent to a nursing facility. These associations were statistically significant and held true for patients at all stages of chronic kidney disease._x000D_ In simple terms, the study highlights the significant health risks associated with high sodium levels acquired during a hospital stay. These risks include a higher likelihood of dying in the hospital or needing specialized care like hospice or nursing facilities after discharge. The findings suggest that monitoring and managing sodium levels in hospitalized patients could be crucial for improving outcomes._x000D_

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