Staff responsibility to exercise

Recent attention has been focused on the importance of exercise for improving the physical functioning of renal patients. The involvement of the dialysis staff in encouragement and implementation of programs is critical to the success of patient efforts in improving physical functioning. Staff responsibility initially consists of various developmental steps that are focused on gaining staff support and developing a plan that matches the needs and the resources available to the unit. Each staff member plays a critical role in the development, implementation, and evaluation of the exercise program. A concerted effort from all staff to incorporate exercise as a routine part of the patient care will enhance the potential of success and patient participation.