Some aspects of the nursing care for patients on hemodialysis

Currently the majority of patients receiving hemodialysis for chronic renal failure are treated as outpatients in hemodialysis units of large hospitals. In most of these units it is the nurses that handle the entire dialysis procedure with little if any direct supervision from physicians. The nurses are also the ones on the health team that have the most contact with the patients. Thus the nurse must have a thorough knowledge of the pathophysiology of renal failure, of the mechanics and technical aspects of the dialyzer, of the expected outcomes and complications of hemodialysis and, particularly, the needs of the hemodialysis patient. The nurses that choose to work with chronic hemodialysis patients can enjoy much satisfaction in assisting in maintaining both a productive life and a long-term relationship with chronic renal failure patients. The nurse makes the difference.