What symptoms would suggest that an increase in estimated dry weight (EDW) is needed?

An increase in estimated dry weight (EDW) is typically indicated by symptoms related to fluid overload in patients undergoing dialysis. Symptoms such as hypotension and cramping during treatment suggest that the individual may be experiencing too much fluid removal, which can lead to a drop in blood pressure and result in muscle cramps due to electrolyte imbalances.

When hypotension occurs, it can indicate that the patient may be too dry, meaning that their current EDW may be set too low, necessitating an adjustment to allow for a higher fluid volume. Cramping often occurs as a side effect of fluid shifts and the removal of electrolytes, which can also signify that the body is not adequately supported with the current fluid parameters. Therefore, these symptoms highlight a potential need to reassess and possibly increase the estimated dry weight to improve patient comfort and treatment outcomes.

In contrast, the other options do not indicate a requirement for increasing the estimated dry weight. Edema and hypertension can suggest fluid overload, fever and chills are associated with infections and not fluid status, while shortness of breath and neck vein distension would more likely suggest fluid overload rather than the need to increase EDW.