Renouncement of renal replacement therapy: withdrawal and refusal

Brazilian Journal of Nephrology

卷:39

关键词: dialysis;    renal dialysis;    palliative care;    bioethics;    acute kidney injury;    renal replacement therapy;    geriatrics;    medical futility;    withholding treatment;    kidney failure, chronic;   

DOI  :  10.5935/0101-2800.20170054

来源: DOAJ

【 摘 要 】

Abstract Renouncement of renal replacement therapy (RRT) is a medical dilemma. This review covers the concept, the magnitude, the prognosis, and discusses strategies and management approaches about this subject in patients with CKD and AKI. Evidence suggests that refusal is more frequent and carries a more guarded prognosis than withdrawal of RRT. When RRT is not expected to be beneficial in terms of survival or quality of life, conservative treatment and palliative care are alternatives. We review the historical evolution of guidelines about renouncement of RRT and palliative care, and highlight the absence of specific recommendations in Brazil. However renouncement of RRT may be ethically and legally accepted in Brazil, as the right to a dignified death. Longer life expectancy, economic pressures, and greater awareness will require a more detailed discussion about indications and sustainable use of RRT, and possibly the elaboration of national guidelines.

【 授权许可】

Unknown