title: Improving IV iron and anemia management in the hemodialysis setting: a collaborative CQI approach.
abstract: Patients on hemodialysis may suffer from iron-defciency anemia ensuing from impaired erythropoiesis due to kidney disease and the ongoing loss of blood during the hemodialysis procedure, among other clinical factors. Effective treatment of iron-deficiency anemia is critical for patients but can be challenging for nurses and fellow staff members because proper management requires a balance between erythropoietin-stimulating agents and intravenous iron therapy. Implementing a continuous quality improvement program that focuses on a collaborative approach to managing iron-deficiency anemia can successfully educate all dialysis staff members on treatment-related issues, streamline patient care, and improve anemia-related outcomes, as demonstrated by a regional network of dialysis centers. This article focuses on their experiences and the important role of the nurse in this initiative.
authors.affiliation: Fresenius Medical Care, Tupelo, MS, USA.
authors.forename: Bart
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Pruett
authors.forename: Steven
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Johnson
authors.forename: Nancy
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: O'Keefe
mesh_terms: D018798:Anemia, Iron-Deficiency / Q000188:drug therapy*; D003299:Cooperative Behavior; D006801:Humans; D007501:Iron / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D006435:Renal Dialysis; D017749:Total Quality Management
chemical_list: D007501:Iron