Quality of life outcomes related to anemia management of patients with chronic renal failure

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of a clinical nurse specialist-managed outpatient anemia management program on quality of life for patients with anemia related to chronic kidney disease. Description of the study: A retrospective study was conducted using information from the Medical Outcomes Short Form 36 Item Health Survey, which is completed by patients with anemia at their initial, 3-month, 6-month, and 12-month visits, and annually thereafter. Thirty-four patients completed the 3-month survey, 19 completed the 6-month survey, and 10 completed the 12-month survey. Outcomes: There was a statistically significant increase in quality of life indicators at the 3 and 6 months' interval. The increase in physical and decrease in mental indicators were not substantiated through the 12-month interval. Conclusion: Quality of life was significantly improved for patients in a clinical nurse specialist-managed outpatient anemia management program.