Kidney Replacement Therapy for Chronic Kidney Disease: Evidence-based Guidelines for Clinical Practice

Abstract

Abstract As chronic kidney disease progresses to end-stage kidney disease, therapies such as haemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis or kidney transplantation will be required to sustain the life of patients, which are referred to as kidney replacement therapies (KRTs). Each modality of replacement therapy has its benefits and risks which should be communicated to the patients and family members before the end stage of kidney disease so that patients may be guided to make informed choice of treatment. Those who are not willing or suitable for KRT may be provided conservative kidney management. This article discusses about the KRT options available in management of end-stage kidney disease, highlighting the indications, principles, guidelines for clinical practice, benefits and risks of each of these modalities which will direct the nurses in providing comprehensive, evidence-based nursing care to patients receiving replacement therapies.