Answer to Question 1
Epogen is a biological response modifier. Erythropoietin is necessary for RBC production and is produced by the kidney. With renal failure comes the inability to produce erythropoietin and thus anemia. Epogen mimics erythropoietin and prevents anemia.
Answer to Question 2
In order to keep the patient free of cardiovascular/pulmonary complications, fluid, Na, and K are restricted. Phosphorus is either restricted or treated with medications. Proteins are restricted to prevent blood toxins from accumulating but kcals are increased by increasing CHO and fat.
Energy: normal wt = 35 kcals/kg; obese = 20-30 kcals/kg of IBW (IBW could be replaced with RBW or both could be calculated); underweight = 40 - 45 kcals/kg of IBW
Protein = 1.1 - 1.4 g/kg of IBW; Na = 2 - 3 g/d; K = 50 - 80 mEq; Phos = 800 - 1300 mg/d; Fluids = 750 cc + amount of urine output/d.