Clinical management of a hemodialysis patient with metastatic hypernephroma receiving experimental alfa interferon therapy.
The nursing interventions needed to promote optimal care for D.S. forcefully reminded the nurses of the challenges of nursing practice. The physiologic and emotional impact of the disease processes (ESRD and cancer), and the nature of chronic illness with concurrent experimental interferon therapy required continuous attention as the combined therapies progressed. The goals and interventions outlined are familiar to nephrology nurses. They are very effective in assisting this patient to adjust and to meet the expected outcomes. The unique nature of every patient remains the constant in our clinical practice. Nursing must continue to forge ahead in assessing a patient's needs, but always remembering that these needs must support the patient's relationship with his/her world.