| Theme |
Physical assessment of the dialysis patient -- nurse with the ability for observation |
| Title |
Physical assessment during the induction phase of renal replacement therapy |
| Author |
Chiaki Imoto |
Omihachiman Community Medical Center |
| [ Summary ] |
Patients with endstage renal disease sometimes do not identify their inevitable decline in renal function. It is too late to begin renal replacement therapy (RRT) when the patient's physical condition is critical. The nurse can assist the induction of RRT at a time when the patient's physical condition is stable with a healthy nutritional status and lifestyle. The decision to begin RRT should not rely solely on the opinion of the doctor and laboratory findings, but should take into account the opinion of the nurse as a member of the medical support team. A nursing physical assessment of the renal failure patient is necessary. |