A patient tells the dialysis technician that he is gaining weight. To whom should this patient be referred?

In the context of a patient on dialysis gaining weight, the most appropriate referral is to a registered dietitian. This professional specializes in nutrition and dietary management, which is crucial for dialysis patients who must carefully monitor their fluid and sodium intake. Weight gain in this population can indicate fluid retention, which is a significant concern and may result from dietary indiscretion or other complications related to their condition.

The registered dietitian can assess the patient’s current diet, educate them on appropriate dietary choices, and help establish a meal plan that aligns with their health goals, particularly managing their weight and ensuring adequate nutrient intake while avoiding excess fluid. This makes the registered dietitian essential in addressing the issue of weight gain in this specific scenario.

While a registered nurse, social worker, or physician may also play roles in addressing a patient's overall care, it is the dietitian who has the specialized knowledge to tackle the immediate concern of dietary factors impacting the patient’s weight in the context of dialysis.