Management of Anemia in Renal Palliative Care Clinic: A Patient-Centered Approach

Abstract

BackgroundDespite the growing needs in nondialytic alternatives for conservative kidney management, few studies have examined the management of anemia in palliative care (PC) outpatient clinics, which represent the key point of entry for timely access to PC. ObjectiveA retrospective study to review for a patient-centered approach in anemia management and symptom control. ResultsOver the study period from July 2020 to March 2023, a total of 158 patients were seen at our renal PC clinic, 47 were included in data analysis. Patients had a mean age and glomerular filtration rate of 81.3 (9.5) years and 8.6 (5.3) mL/min/1.73 m2, and 68.1% and 44.7% were receiving erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) and iron supplements respectively, with only 4.3% of patients required transfusion over past six months. Mean hemoglobin was maintained at 9.8 (1.4) g/dL, with a mean POS-S renal score of 4.7 (3.2). Majority of patients (93.6%) had satisfactory rating on “weakness and lack of energy” item. ConclusionA patient-centered approach in anemia management at renal PC outpatient clinics may alleviate symptom burden and minimize transfusion requirement.