Abbotsford hospital team receives key funding for renal care research project

ABBOTSFORD — A team at the Abbotsford Regional Hospital and Cancer Centre is working to improve kidney patient care across the province with a new research grant.

The Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation and Michael Smith Health Research BC have awarded a group of local researchers a Knowledge Translation award – kick-starting new research that aims to help dietitians feel more comfortable using clinical tools, such as dynamometers, to examine patients.

“It’s a great conversation starter,” said Laila Akbar, renal dietitian at Abbotsford Regional. “Patients and nurses are intrigued, and it’s quick to use.”

The grip strength tool is regularly used by dietitians as part of a Subjective Global Assessment to assess a patient’s nutrition levels. Individuals with chronic kidney disease often have poor nutrition and muscle loss, affecting their strength and recovery.