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Biomedical subjects

S A Pfettscher

Publications and source records attributed to S A Pfettscher.

4 recordsLinked to original sources
PubMed1997

Making decisions about end-stage renal disease treatment: a review of theories and issues.

Multiple theories and models of decision-making have been reported in the popular and scientific literature. Decisions and choices about health care are some of the most dramatic and difficult that humans make. The interactive role of patient and health care professional in circumstances of urgency, stress, and possible unpredictability is complex. This article reviews some of the theories of decision-making and their implementation or usefulness in the end-stage renal disease setting. In caring for patients, health professionals need to identify their approach to the decision-making process with special concern for the patient role in this process.

Decision Making↗
PubMed1995

Assessment of the learner: physiological readiness.

Patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) who undergo dialytic therapy or who receive a kidney transplant are expected to learn a great deal of information about their disease and treatment. As this population encompasses a vast number of persons of varying age, education, and life skills, the ability to learn new information may be a challenge for both the patient and staff. The uremic state and its effect on cognitive function influences the patient's physiological readiness and ability to learn. Recent research, testing methods, and understanding of other effects of renal failure on cognitive function have provided more information about the patient's physiological readiness/ability to learn. Health care professionals can incorporate these new findings into their teaching programs and strategies to assure successful patient learning and outcomes.

Aptitude↗
PubMed1993

Bioethics in nephrology: definitions and practices.

Ethical theory and principles can be applied and adapted for use in health care; individuals or groups may be making bioethical decisions regarding patient care in a number of settings. The current bioethical debates in the nephrology community and for ESRD patients center on issues of patient selection for treatment and criteria for the discontinuation of treatment after it has been initiated. This article defines bioethical theory and principles and their application to these two issues of patient care.

Decision Making, Organizational↗