Early home-based group education to support informed decision-making among patients with end-stage renal disease: a multi-centre randomized controlled trial.

Background: The aim was to test the effectiveness of early home-based group education on knowledge and communication about renal replacement therapy (RRT).

Methods: We conducted a randomized controlled trial using a cross-over design among 80 end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. Between T0 and T1 (weeks 1-4) Group 1 received the intervention and Group 2 received standard care.

Justification for a home-based education programme for kidney patients and their social network prior to initiation of renal replacement therapy.

In this article, an ethical analysis of an educational programme on renal replacement therapy options for patients and their social network is presented. The two main spearheads of this approach are: (1) offering an educational programme on all renal replacement therapy options ahead of treatment requirement and (2) a home-based approach involving the family and friends of the patient. Arguments are offered for the ethical justification of this approach by considering the viewpoint of the various stakeholders involved.