Perceived status of patient care technician training and certification impact in U.S. hemodialysis facilities.

In 2008, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) enacted a requirement for the mandatory certification of non-licensed hemodialysis patient care technicians (PCTs) effective in 2010. This study examined the perceived status of PCT training and the impact of the mandatory certification on patient care. Results indicated that there are differences between the current and ideal elements of PCT training programs; the use of electronic education materials and online education courses and programs is limited, and infection control practices, vascular access care, and patient safety are the most needed areas for future PCT education.

Adherence in patients on dialysis: strategies for success.

Adherence is a major problem in patients with chronic kidney disease. Patients can be nonadherent with different aspects of their treatment, which includes medications, treatment regimens, and dietary and fluid restrictions. Although many lessons have been learned from adherence research, the evidence of how to modify adherence is somewhat mixed.

Anemia in CKD: prevalence, diagnosis, and treatment. Case study of the anemic patient.

A point-in-time observational study was conducted in over 1,000 nephrology offices between November 1999 and December 2000 to determine the prevalence of anemia in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Trends in hemoglobin (Hb) and serum creatinine (SCr) levels were assessed among 4,831 evaluable patients to determine the relationship between renal function and anemia. Results demonstrated that anemia is common in patients with CKD, with progressive increases in prevalence and severity as renal function deteriorates.