Home health and respite care

Abstract

Families with a child on chronic peritoneal dialysis have to assume a significant burden of care, which can result in stress and potential complications. Adequate preparation of the child and family with appropriate information in many forms is essential. We describe a home-visiting strategy using the named nurse, dietitian, and social worker, which also includes liaison with nurseries, schools, community nurses, and primary care physicians. Respite care is provided by an occasional evening baby-sitting service and increasing use of daytime support from a home care nurse. The holiday support strategy includes a holiday caravan for families in addition to an organized holiday for children alone. A parents' support group has provided valuable feedback on quality-of-care issues.