Implementation of an intradialytic exercise program
chronic kidney disease; hemodialysis; feasibility; physical activity
Patients with kidney failure on hemodialysis experience protein-energy wasting, loss of muscle mass and impaired physical function. Physical exercise during hemodialysis sessions appears to be a complementary therapeutic option to mitigate these characteristics. However, little evidence is available on long-term experience implementing this intervention as part of routine clinical practice. The present study aimed to investigate the feasibility of implementing a supervised intradialytic physical exercise program for patients on short-term daily hemodialysis. This is an observational, longitudinal and prospective study. Thirty-three patients were included. The physical exercise program consisted of a warm-up, lower and upper limb resistance exercises, lower limb cycle ergometer and cool down. Patients underwent the intervention during the first hour of hemodialysis, twice a week, supervised by physiotherapists and/or physical education professionals. Feasibility was assessed using the RE-AIM tool (Reach = Reach, Efficacy/Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, Maintenance) at individual and global levels.