Development of a nocturnal home hemodialysis (NHHD) program for children

Abstract

Whereas the success of nocturnal home hemodialysis (NHHD) as a treatment modality for adults has been clearly demonstrated, there is very little experience with NHHD in children. There are genuine concerns related to patient safety, as well as a potentially overwhelming burden on the parents of children, while supervising NHHD. Each of these issues has been considered in the development of the NHHD program for children in Toronto. The steps involved in the development of this program are outlined. The experience of Simonsen (4), that NHHD is feasible and provides excellent dialysis for children, is confirmed.