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Chronic kidney disease: What’s in a name?

By Jane Ridley, RN(EC), MScN, CNeph(C), Janet Baker, RN, BN, CNeph(C), Cynthia Mills, RN, BN, CNeph(C), Mary Ann Murray, RN, MScN, PhD(c), CON(C), GNC(C), CHPCN(C), and Elizabeth Ton, RN, BScN

Abstract

There is a lack of precision and clarity in the terms used to describe chronic kidney disease (CKD). Inconsistent terminology is confusing for both practitioners and patients. The purpose of this article is to review and examine various terms used to label CKD and to propose an evidence-based recommendation to support the use of a standard terminology for CKD.

Key terms: chronic kidney disease, chronic renal insufficiency, progressive renal insufficiency, end stage renal disease

 

Author Affiliation(s):

Jane Ridley, RN(EC), MScN, CNeph(C), Nurse Practitioner, University Hospital, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON

Janet Baker, RN, BN, CNeph(C), Nurse Clinician, Kidney Function Clinic, Halton Healthcare Services Corporation, Oakville, ON

Cynthia Mills, RN, BN, CNeph(C), Professional Practice Leader/Clinical Educator, Renal Unit, Hôtel-Dieu Grace Hospital,Windsor, ON

Mary Ann Murray, RN, MScN, PhD(c), CON(C), GNC(C), CHPCN(C), Doctoral Candidate, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON

Elizabeth Ton, RN, BN, Staff Nurse ER-OBS, Halton Healthcare Services, Oakville Trafalgar-Memorial Hospital, Oakville, ON