Nightly home hemodialysis: improvement in nutrition and quality of life.

In September, 1997, we began a Nightly Home Hemodialysis Program modeled after a program in Toronto, Canada. We have assessed nutritional parameters and quality of life indicators before initiation of the program, and at 3, 6, 12, and 18 months. Data suggest that patients have improved overall quality of life as measured by the CHOICE Health Experience Questionnaire. Three-day dietary recalls at 0, 3, 6, 12, and 18 months also show patients are eating healthy and maintaining adequate kilocalorie and protein intakes, as well as maintaining adequate dry weight and protein stores.