The Roles of Nurses in Promoting Self-Management in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease to Slowing Kidney Deterioration in Primary Care Units

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major public health problem, especially for patients with chronic kidney disease in stage 3, which is the most crucial period requiring intensive management to slow the progression of kidney disease. However, knowledge about the promotion of self-management among patients with CKD in primary care settings is still little. Thus, this article aims to present the knowledge of self-management in maintaining the kidney function, and to analyze the essential role of nurses in primary care units (PCU) in promoting self-management to slow disease progression.

Nurses serve as pivotal health coaches driving sustainable behavioral change, encompassing three main areas including 1) assessment and individualized planning by conducting holistic assessments (knowledge, self-efficacy, social, and cultural context) and setting collaborative as Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound (SMART) goals with patients, 2) effective education and skills transfer focusing on practical skill instruction and utilizing motivational interviewing techniques, and 3) continuous monitoring and support for both clinical outcomes and the psychosocial well-being of patients. Therefore, developing the capacity of nurses to play the role of health coaches is an important strategy for creating a sustainable care system for patients with chronic kidney disease.