Improvement of Hyperphosphatemia following Patient Education

Background:Patient adherence to a phosphate binder treatment regimen is crucial in the management of hyperphosphatemia. Nonadherence may be due to a lack of patient knowledge of the nature and treatment of the illness.Objective:To investigate the effectiveness of pharmacist-provided education regarding phosphate binders and hyperphosphatemia on serum phosphate concentration and calcium x phosphorous product in hemodialysis patients.Methods:A total of 398 hemodialysis patients who were prescribed phosphate binders participated in a pharmacist-run, education-based intervention session regarding phosphate binders and hyperphosphatemia. Each session was individualized on the basis of patient knowledge, assessed via a questionnaire. Particular attention was given to correcting patient misconceptions. Patients with elevated serum phosphate received additional education. Mean serum concentrations of phosphate and calcium, averaged from 4 measurements obtained at both baseline and postintervention, were compared ...