Multidisciplinary approach for prescriptive management of mineral and bone metabolism in chronic kidney disease: development of a dietetic led protocol.

BACKGROUND: A number of mineral metabolism abnormalities occur as kidney function declines, these include hyperphosphatemia, hyperparathyroidism and altered vitamin D metabolism. These derangements are associated with increased morbidity and mortality amongst the chronic kidney disease patient group. Treatment requires a multidisciplinary team approach in which the dietitian plays a pivotal role.

OBJECTIVES: The development of protocols to aid implementation of various international, national and local treatment strategies is described. Audit the protocol to evaluate their clinical effectiveness.

RESULTS: A prescriptive Protocol for the management of mineral and bone metabolism abnormalities in chronic kidney disease was developed and implemented. Initial audit findings suggest the protocol has had a positive effect on the control of phosphate, corrected calcium and parathyroid (PTH) levels.

CONCLUSION: The development and implementation of a dietetic-led prescriptive therapy protocol allows dietitians and clinicians to adopt an integrated approach for the diagnosis and timely management of these complicated conditions.