Justification for a home-based education programme for kidney patients and their social network prior to initiation of renal replacement therapy

J Med Ethics. 2011 Nov;37(11):677-81. doi: 10.1136/jme.2011.042366. Epub 2011 May 25.

Abstract

In this article, an ethical analysis of an educational programme on renal replacement therapy options for patients and their social network is presented. The two main spearheads of this approach are: (1) offering an educational programme on all renal replacement therapy options ahead of treatment requirement and (2) a home-based approach involving the family and friends of the patient. Arguments are offered for the ethical justification of this approach by considering the viewpoint of the various stakeholders involved. Finally, reflecting on these ethical considerations, essential conditions for carrying out such a programme are outlined. The goal is to develop an ethically justified and responsible educational programme.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Family / psychology
  • Friends / psychology
  • Humans
  • Kidney Failure, Chronic / psychology
  • Kidney Failure, Chronic / therapy*
  • Living Donors / psychology*
  • Netherlands
  • Patient Education as Topic / methods*
  • Patient Education as Topic / standards
  • Renal Replacement Therapy / methods
  • Renal Replacement Therapy / psychology*
  • Risk Factors
  • Social Support*
  • Time Factors
  • Tissue and Organ Procurement