Kidney Stone Patients and Fluid Consumption: Experiences, Concerns, and Interest in Technology for Prevention
Open Access
- Author:
- Dubnansky, Alexandra Beth
- Area of Honors:
- Kinesiology
- Degree:
- Bachelor of Science
- Document Type:
- Thesis
- Thesis Supervisors:
- David E Conroy, Thesis Supervisor
Dr. Mary Jane De Souza, Thesis Honors Advisor - Keywords:
- kidney stone
fluid consumption
urolithiasis - Abstract:
- Increasing fluid consumption is a common prevention strategy to reduce the risk of kidney stones (urolithiasis). However, compliance with fluid intake guidelines can be difficult for some patients. Digital devices, like smartphone applications, connected water bottles, and wrist-worn sensors are emerging to help patients increase their fluid consumption but patient interest in these devices has not been documented. This study evaluated kidney stone patients’ experiences and concerns with increasing fluid consumption, and their interest in using technology in preventative strategies. METHODS: Five semi-structured focus groups involving 19 participants who have had kidney stones were transcribed and organized via induct content analysis. RESULTS: Most patients had been told to increase fluid consumption to reduce the risk of future kidney stones and use common strategies like accessibility, contextual cues, social support systems, tailoring, and feedback to help increase fluid consumption. Additionally, the participants mostly relied on internal feedback to drink and tended to avoid drinking while working, partaking in leisure activities, or traveling. Patients’ concerns about increasing fluid consumption included increased frequency of bathroom trips, the large volume of fluid consumption recommended, and water dissatisfaction. Participants were interested in using technology if drinking detection sensors were aesthetically pleasing, accurate, and easily compatible with other existing devices. CONCLUSION: Patients with kidney stones appear willing to incorporate technology to support their fluid consumption goals provided that their preferences are taken into consideration during intervention design.