Accurate weight monitoring during pediatric hemodialysis

A very accurate (±3 g) yet simple weight monitoring technique for use during pediatric hemodialysis has been developed. While the infant being dialyzed is in a crib resting on an electronic scale, influences of movement of either patient or equipment on the weight monitoring is eliminated by the use of 'double tape technique'. Damping errors are avoided by the use of small weights added or removed from the crib, keeping the scale read out head at zero position. Using this technique in combination with small pediatric dialyzers, shunts, blood lines, and careful control of serum osmolality changes, the incidence of hemodialysis complications in infant hemodialysis has been reduced by 67% and is now no greater in patients weighing less than 10 kg than it is in adult patients.