Implementing supplementary nurse prescribing in the haemodialysis unit

This article looks at the case study of Mr Ainsworth, a 42-year-old man on haemodialysis. Mr Ainsworth receives erythropoietin therapy intravenously twice per week to correct anaemia caused by end-stage chronic renal failure. The study describes how the renal nurse, as a supplementary prescriber, can manage his anaemia under a clinical management plan. Supplementary prescribing enhances nursing practice by empowering those who are best placed to make decisions regarding care and treatment for their patients. It is of benefit to patient care, meeting the demands of an expanding patient population.