The significance of the timing of referral for renal care.
Research has shown that referral of patients in the stages of renal disease, to a Nephrologist has significant impact on the patients overall health and well-being. This article is a review of the literature discussing the key impact that late referral has on the patient. This will include looking at the preparation of the patient for dialysis-education and vascular access as well as discussing the modality choice for the patient. It will also address the longer-term impact such as patient survival on dialysis.
Brick
Nerys
N
Critical Care and Adult Nursing, Department of Nursing and Applied Clinical Studies, Canterbury Christ Church University, North Holmes Road, Canterbury CT1 1QU, Kent, UK. nerys.brick@canterbury.ac.uk
Ellis
Peter
P
D042241:Early Diagnosis; D006801:Humans; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D011788:Quality of Life; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D006435:Renal Dialysis; D051436:Renal Insufficiency, Chronic / Q000628:therapy*; D016019:Survival Analysis; D016896:Treatment Outcome