ESRD--finite or infinite treatment options.

Abstract

There are several treatment options for end stage renal disease (ESRD)--renal transplantation, peritoneal dialysis, hemodialysis or no treatment. The treatment of choice will vary from individual to individual and some of the treatments may not be suitable for, or available to each individual. This is a case presentation of Maria, who, over 18 years has had all of the treatment options available for ESRD. Maria moved from treatment with peritoneal dialysis to transplant, and then following her second transplant failure, she commenced hemodialysis. While on hemodialysis she exhausted all of the vascular access options available, requiring an innovative permanent inferior vena cava catheter. Finally, she decided to withdraw from treatment. The nursing role throughout the treatment course is highlighted, with a focus on the nursing interventions during the last two years, at which time Maria exercised her right to withdraw from treatment.