Supporting Home Dialysis in Primary Health Care

Overview

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is very prevalent in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, especially those in rural and remote areas.

Many Aboriginal Medical Service (AMS) patients will eventually require treatment for end-stage kidney disease.

Treatment options include kidney transplant, dialysis and/or supportive care. If dialysis is required, it may be performed at a renal unit or at home. Home dialysis is beneficial because it promotes independence and quality of life.

It is particularly useful for those who live in rural and remote areas, as they can return home faster from distant renal centres.

While home dialysis is usually self-managed, support from AMS staff may help to improve outcomes and quality of life for patients and families.

This module provides an overview of home dialysis. It aims to provide the clinical information required to support patients and families on home dialysis.

Learning Objectives

At the end of this module participants will be able to:

  • Identify the treatment options for end-stage kidney disease.
  • Describe the types of home dialysis including peritoneal dialysis and home haemodialysis..
  • Understand how to support patients on home dialysis through decision making support, access to specialised renal care, and ongoing maintenance.
  • Identify key complications of home haemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis and how to assist with problem solving and treatment.
  • Define peritonitis.li>

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