How often should unstable patients have a comprehensive re-assessment and revision of their POA?

• A. Monthly
• B. Annually
• C. 90 days
• D. 30 days

Answer: (A)

Unstable patients can change rapidly, so their plan of action needs updating more often. Reassessing comprehensively and revising the POA on a monthly basis lets the care team adjust the dialysis prescription, medications, nutrition, fluid goals, and support needs in response to new labs, symptoms, or complications before problems worsen. This cadence provides timely alignment between current status and treatment goals, which is essential when risk is high. Waiting longer—such as quarterly or yearly—can miss important shifts in volume status, electrolytes, infection risk, or residual function, while a very short interval may not yield meaningful changes. For unstable patients, monthly review keeps the plan dynamic and responsive, helping to prevent deterioration and hospitalizations.