Course Description:

End-stage renal disease (ESRD) is associated with early onset osteoporosis, sarcopenia, and activity intolerance, resulting in decreased function, elevated fall risk, and reduced health-related quality of life. As a rehabilitation therapy professional, your role is to identify and address these issues to prevent further decline and improve mobility and function. To achieve these outcomes, you need an understanding of the impairments associated with ESRD, the common treatments, and the interaction of medical treatments like hemodialysis with therapeutic interventions. In this course, learners will gain an understanding of the systemic impacts of ESRD, the impact of treatment on clinical presentation, and key areas to focus their physical and occupational therapy assessments. Best practices for effective interventions are presented, considering the impact of factors like fatigue, nutrition, and the type and timing of dialysis treatments with interventions.