Author:
Anderson Elizabeth B.,Browne Teri
Abstract
Abstract
Kidney disease is a unique practice area for social work, as every dialysis and kidney transplant center is required to have a masters-level social worker on its interdisciplinary team. Chronic kidney disease is associated with significant pain issues and high mortality. People with kidney disease have the right to start, forgo, or discontinue renal replacement therapy at any time and have access to a full range of treatment options, including conservative care and palliative dialysis. As a result, people with chronic kidney disease may have many palliative care concerns. Nephrology social workers can integrate the eight domains of palliative care into their practice and assist patients and their families with palliative care issues.