Nursing Care Plan (NCP) for Renal Failure Undergoing Hemodialysis

Renal Failure occurs when the kidneys are not able to adequately excrete wastes and toxins from the body. This progressive process is usually slow. Ultimately, the kidneys become so damaged that they can no longer expel waste products or regulate the body's delicate balance of fluid, resulting in end-stage renal disease (ESRD). When this happens, patients need treatment to replace the work of failed kidneys. Hemodialysis is one of the most commonly used renal replacement therapy.

Hemodialysis is a procedure of cleansing the blood of accumulated waste products. It is a fast and efficient method for removing urea and other toxins and correcting fluid and electrolyte imbalances. A nursing care plan (NCP) for patients with Renal Failure may include aspects as below:

1. Monitor food and fluid ingested and calculate daily intake of calories. The nutritional needs are extremely varied with patient's age, stage of kidney disease and other coexisting conditions.

2. Small, frequent meals are recommended. Smaller portions may enhance intake. Patients might not be fed directly before or during process, as it can alter fluid removal.

3. Frequent mouth care before eating is needed, which can decrease oral discomforts that can interfere with intake of foods.

4. Measure the weight every day at fixed time by the same weighing machine. The weight gain should be no more than 2 to 3 kg between dialysis.

5. Do proper physical activities. Avoid being tired, or fatigue.

6. Protect themselves from catching a cold or an infections. Develop a healthy living habits. Have a good control of blood pressure. Consult a doctor before taking medicines.

If people with Renal Failure undergoing hemodialysis can follow the above suggestions, their life quality can be improved in a certain degree. Is there still any questions? Feel free to call +86 311 8926-2305 or email to kidney-treatment@hotmail.com.