Chronic Kidney Disease Service
Patients who have kidney problems and are diagnosed as having renal failure will be seen by the nephrologists (kidney doctors) in the outpatient clinics. Some of these patients have kidneys that will eventually fail. When kidneys fail or stop working, renal replacement therapy (RRT) is needed to remain alive. These therapies are well established and can give patients a good quality of life for many many years. There are some though whose co existing problems would render RRT unsuitable. These people are offered conservative treatment.
Before renal replacement therapy starts we will help patients to understand their condition. We also explain the renal replacement therapies that we may use in the future. We view this as a very important stage in patients’ emotional and physical care.
Patients are offered the Chronic Kidney Disease Service’s pyschological and educational support arrangements at this stage in their care.
Types of information explained
- Patients will be talked through the three types of Renal Replacement Therapies (RRT) which are peritoneal dialysis, haemodialysis, and renal transplantation.
- Those not going for RRT but for conservative treatment will have this care explained.
- Explanations of the operations needed to prepare for RRT.
- Explanations of virus checks and immunisations
- Explanations of special diets needed
- Explanations of special medication needed – what it does and how to take it
Rebecca Lorimer: Renal Education Nurse: 01603 288920 | Rebecca.lorimer@nnuh.nhs.uk
Some useful educational links:
- Kidney Care Norfolk
- National Kidney Federation
- British Kidney Patient Association (BKPA)
- Kidney Patient Guide
- UK Transplant