The anaemia research nurse in effective multi-disciplinary management of patients on erythropoietin.

Abstract

Following recommendations published by the Renal Association, the standard regarding optimal haemoglobin levels was questioned by members of the Oxford Renal Unit Management Team as perhaps being unrealistic in a unit responsible for nearly 400 patients on dialysis. Subsequent to the appointment of an anaemia research nurse a base-line audit revealed that only 61.3% of the dialysis population had a haemoglobin > 10 g/dl and also identified the reasons why the unit was failing to meet this pre-set target. This paper identifies how the unit addressed these problems which has subsequently led to a change in views about achieving the standard. The establishment of clear management guidelines cannot be over emphasised and all aspects of anaemia in this unit will now be addressed as part of the multi-disciplinary team function rather than being led by medical intervention.