Encouraging self-administration of erythropoietin

European Best Practice Guidelines of 1999 for managing anaemia in patients with kidney failure state that patients using the subcutaneous route should be encouraged to self-administer epoetin whenever possible. This article argues for and substantiates the need to develop an education programme, which should consist of group and one-to-one teaching sessions with discussion, role-play, visual aids and demonstration. Information booklets will be provided covering blood pressure monitoring, ordering and storage of medication and safe disposal of syringes. Methods to evaluate the education programme include direct observation, laboratory reports, patient care plans and feedback. The theoretical benefits of such a programme should include; improved cardiovascular function with a more compliant patient enjoying an improved quality of life. The organisation should benefit through lower costs and a structured method of audit.