Nursing Aspects of the Elderly Patient on Dialysis

Abstract

The elderly patient on dialysis requires more nursing care than those tasks assigned by the dialysis procedure; he needs more than the obvious physical care. The dialysis nurse needs to be aware of the aging process and the psysiological changes which come with advancing years and how the dialysis procedure and the response to it differs from that in the younger patient. Beyond the physical needs of the elderly dialysis patient, lie the complex emotional and psychosocial demands of complete care. It is a privilege to care for the elderly. We can learn much from them. We must be willing to give of ourselves and be prepared to learn.