12_2_1
Volume 12, Number 2, pages 14 - 20
A critical analysis of the value of symptom models for managing chronic fatigue in patients with end stage renal disease
Oneka Pratt, RN, MN
Abstract
Preparing hemodialysis nurses to assume facilitator positions during health assessment and intervention planning requires that the traditional helping of hemodialysis clients, which refers to helping clients identify symptoms so that nurses or doctors can decide on actions, be augmented with the application of symptom models. In this article, a discussion is provided of how two symptom models, the Symptom Interpretation Model (SIM) and the Symptom Self-Care Response Model (SSCRM), prepare hemodialysis nurses to use an empowerment education approach to influence positive client outcomes. An analysis of the clinical usefulness of both models applied to a case study involving a chronically-fatigued hemodialysis client provides examples of strengths and weaknesses of the process by which clients assess and decide what to do about their symptoms. The paper clearly demonstrates that the application of symptom models enhances nursing knowledge and positively influences nursing practice.
Author Affiliation(s): University Health Network, Toronto General Hospital Site, in Toronto, Ontario.