ProfessionalsKey to Success: 2004 Kidney Transplant Report
Background
An analysis of the 2001-2003 Texas transplant rates by dialysis facility identified variation in the percent of the dialysis patients being transplanted as a percent of their average yearly patient census. Overall, the Texas dialysis community average yearly transplant rate was 4.2% (total number of transplanted from a dialysis facility /average yearly statewide patient census). Please refer to your facility specific chart attached. No chart will be included if facility opened in 2004.
The analysis identified variation in the percent of facility patients being transplanted. Percent patients transplanted ranged from 0 - 33.6% of average patient census It is important to note that based on individual facility average patient age, morbidity mix and time in operation variation would be expected in facility specific rates.
Quality Improvement Actions
The Network contacted nurse managers of facilities with 7% or higher transplants rates and interviewed them to learn more about facility specific strategies utilized to increase patient interest in the transplant option and to encourage patients to seek evaluation. We have listed below the common strategies reportedly being utilized that were believed to result in increased number of patients transplanted from their facilities.
Suggested Strategies
Educate staff:
- In service on transplant options and success rates to improve knowledge and attitude of both patient and, if applicable family members, about transplant
- Request and receive in-services from local transplant program staff
Educate patients
- Request and receive in-services from local transplant program staff
- Have transplant patients return to facility after transplant to talk to patients and their family members considering transplant option and to answer questions
- Show modality options videos to patients after first week (individual VCR and TV)
- Meet with patients after 1 month of treatment to review options
Participate in evaluation process
- Make 1st appointment with transplant coordinator to speed process and increase chances that patient will be evaluated
- With patient approval, facility staff member attends transplant team evaluation meeting when patients are discussed
Monitor evaluation process
- Delegate staff member to monitor patient workup status on a monthly basis
- Follow-up monthly in care plan conference
Pre - ESRD consideration
- Physician encourages pre-ESRD listing of patient
- Conduct pre-ESRD sessions that discuss transplant optionsa
Page Updated/Reviewed on 09/10/06