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.

Chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular disease--using the ANNA Standards and Practice Guidelines to improve care. Part 1: the epidemiology of chronic kidney disease: the risk factors and complications that contribute to cardiovascular disease.

Recent National Kidney Foundation Kidney Disease Outcome Quality Initiative Guidelines for cardiovascular disease recommend that patients with chronic kidney disease be considered at highest risk for development of cardiovascular disease and that cardiac risk factor reduction begin with diagnosis of chronic kidney disease. Risk factors for cardiovascular disease in patients with chronic kidney disease include both traditional and nontraditional renal-related cardiac risk factors. The ANNA Nephrology Nursing Standards of Practice and Guidelines for Care can provide the foundation for planning care to patients with CKD and not only slow the progression of CKD but reduce exposure to cardiac risk factors.

Self-management in patients with end stage renal disease: exploring domains and dimensions.

The management and appropriate treatment of chronic disease are ongoing challenges in health care. As the population ages, the prevalence of chronic disease can be expected to increase. Since by definition there is no cure for chronic disease, controlling, minimizing, or managing its negative effects becomes a primary goal.