Rehabilitating a dialysis patient

Abstract

End-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients undergoing dialysis face much stress and have to make adjustments in their lives. To optimize health and improve quality of life, rehabilitation of renal patients is a necessity. Renal rehabilitation includes physical, social, psychological, and vocational elements. We established a renal rehabilitation program--including predialysis education, incenter training, and community rehabilitation--in our regional dialysis unit. The program is organized by a multidisciplinary team of health professionals with the help of a renal-patient support group. A patient who joined the rehabilitation program showed significant lifestyle change.