Case study of the anemic patient: epoetin alfa--focus on blood pressure

Patients with anemia caused by end-stage renal disease experience significant fatigue and decreased tolerance for activity. Epoetin alfa corrects anemia in virtually all of these patients, thereby providing several cardiovascular benefits, but some patients may develop increased blood pressure. Nephrology nurses should maximize the benefits of correcting anemia, while ensuring that blood pressure is optimally controlled, thus preserving cardiovascular function.