Stay ConnectedThe Kidney Commute podcast seeks to enhance the work of the interprofessional kidney care team by providing connection through education and CE credits for eligible listeners, while the Pitstop sub-series is a non-accredited exploration of what drives innovation in the nephrology field.
Two opportunities to learn, one opportunity to earn.
Copyright: © Copyright 2021 All rights reserved.
ANCA-associated vasculitis is a rare autoimmune disease that can rapidly damage the kidneys, lungs, and other organs. Early recognition and prompt treatment are essential.
In this episode of Kidney Commute Pit Stop, host Dr. Osama El Shamy is joined by rheumatologist Dr. Anisha Dua, nephrologist Dr. Duvuru Geetha, and kidney transplant recipient Melissa Rubio. Together they explore common signs and clinical presentations, diagnostic challenges, the role of ANCA testing and kidney biopsy, and why timely treatment initiation is critical to preserving organ function.
Melissa shares her inspiring journey from diagnosis at age 17 through dialysis, kidney transplantation, and recovery. Her story highlights the importance of patient education, family support, and multidisciplinary care.
Whether you are a member of the nephrology or rheumatology care team, this episode provides practical insights to help recognize ANCA-associated vasculitis earlier, support timely diagnosis, and improve patient outcomes.
This episode is supported by Amgen.
Please click here, to view more information and resources on ANCA-Associated Vasculitis (AAV).
Upon completion of this podcast, please complete the survey at https://nkf.jotform.com/261964216947872
Hyperphosphatemia affects a significant proportion of patients receiving dialysis and remains a complex challenge for kidney care teams. In this episode of Kidney Commute Pit Stop, Anna Gaddy welcomes nephrologist Jessica Kendrick, clinical pharmacist Kimberly Holdener, and renal nutrition expert David St-Jules to explore what phosphorus management looks like in 2026.
The panel discusses the evolution of the "renal diet," emerging evidence on phosphorus bioavailability, the impact of food additives and processing, and how individualized nutrition counseling can improve patient outcomes. They also review traditional phosphorus binders, challenges with adherence and pill burden, and the emerging role of tenapanor, a first-in-class phosphorus blocker. Listeners will gain practical insights for helping patients navigate phosphorus management while maintaining a balanced, patient-centered approach to nutrition and quality of life.
This episode is supported by Ardelyx.
Please click here, to view a clinical bulletin update on managing hyperphosphatemia in patients on dialysis.
Upon completion of the podcast, please complete this short survey: https://nkf.jotform.com/261544521599868
Disclosure: The content and opinions of the podcast are those of the guests; these are not claims or recommendations for Kate Farms products.
Plant-based nutrition has emerged as an important component of kidney care, but questions remain about how plant-based enteral formulas can best support people living with chronic kidney disease (CKD). In this episode of Kidney Commute: Pit Stop, host Dr. Raphy Rosen is joined by Brandon Kistler, PhD, RD, and Rachel Wontor, MS, RDN, CD, CNSC, to explore the growing role of plant-based enteral nutrition in clinical practice.
The discussion examines the key features of plant-based formulas, including standard, renal-specific, peptide, and specialty options, and reviews how these products compare with traditional formulas in meeting nutritional needs. The panel also discusses when renal formulas may or may not be necessary, current evidence related to effectiveness and patient acceptance, insurance coverage considerations, and practical approaches for implementing plant-based enteral nutrition in healthcare settings. Clinicians will gain actionable insights to help support individualized nutrition care for people with CKD.
After listening to the podcast, please take a moment to complete the quick survey at https://nkf.jotform.com/261534175734863
Phosphate additives are commonly used in processed and convenience foods, yet many patients and healthcare professionals remain unaware of how significantly they contribute to phosphorus burden in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Elevated phosphorus levels can negatively impact bone, cardiovascular, and overall kidney health, making phosphorus management an important aspect of kidney care.
In this episode of Kidney Commute, an interprofessional panel featuring a nephrologist, dietitian, policy expert, and patient advocate discusses the clinical impact of phosphate additives, the differences between naturally occurring phosphorus and additive-based phosphorus, and the practical challenges patients face when trying to identify hidden phosphorus sources in foods and medications. The discussion also explores socioeconomic barriers, food labeling limitations, and ongoing policy and advocacy efforts aimed at improving phosphorus transparency and patient education. Listeners will gain practical strategies and insights to better support phosphorus management in clinical practice and daily life.
IgA nephropathy and IgA vasculitis remain complex and evolving areas in nephrology care. In this episode, experts discuss key insights from the KDIGO guidelines and KDOQI commentary published in AJKD, focusing on updated approaches to risk stratification, disease progression, and treatment decision making.
The conversation highlights the role of supportive care, immunosuppressive therapy considerations, and emerging therapeutic options, while addressing variability in clinical practice and patient management challenges.
This episode provides practical, evidence based perspectives to help clinicians navigate the nuances of IgAN and IgAV care and apply guideline recommendations in real world settings.
Please view the AJKD article here.
Anemia in chronic kidney disease remains common, complex, and rapidly evolving. In this episode, experts discuss key updates from the 2026 KDIGO Clinical Practice Guidelines and AJKD commentary, including a stronger focus on identifying and treating iron deficiency and refining treatment strategies.
The conversation explores the clinical impact of anemia on cardiovascular risk and quality of life, reviews evidence supporting proactive IV iron use, and examines emerging therapies such as HIF stabilizers. The panel also addresses real world challenges in managing anemia, particularly in non dialysis CKD populations, where access, adherence, and care coordination play a critical role.
This episode provides practical insights to support individualized, evidence based anemia care.
Please click here to access the commentary.
Kidney care rarely takes center stage in Congress, but a recent hearing is bringing renewed attention to prevention, innovation, and patient access. In this episode, host Raphy Rosen is joined by Dr. Suzanne Watnick, who testified as a witness at the March 18 Ways and Means Health Subcommittee hearing, along with Dr. Dan Weiner. Together, they unpack key themes across CKD, dialysis, and transplantation, and explore what emerging legislative efforts could mean for patients and providers. Tune in for an inside look at how kidney care is shaping national health policy.
In this episode of Kidney Commute: Pitstop, we explore key insights from the KDIGO Commentary on the 2025 KDOQI Clinical Practice Guideline for autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). Host Anna Gaddy is joined by Dr. Neera Dahl and Dr. Terry Watnick to discuss how the updated recommendations differ from prior guidance and what they mean for real world practice in the United States. The conversation highlights advances in genetic testing, practical considerations for implementing tolvaptan therapy, and emerging therapies on the horizon. Tune in for actionable takeaways to support clinical decision making and improve care for patients with ADPKD.
Access the commentary here: https://www.ajkd.org/article/S0272-6386(26)00003-X/fulltext
Hosted by Dr. Sam Kant, this Kidney Commute: Pit Stop episode explores the Cerebronephrology region of NephMadness 2026 and the emerging concept of the brain–kidney axis. Drs. David Drew and Colton Jensen examine how chronic kidney disease and ESKD with dialysis contribute to cognitive impairment—an underrecognized complication affecting a large proportion of patients. From early microvascular injury, albuminuria, and hypertension in CKD to cerebral hypoperfusion, ischemia, and structural brain changes during dialysis, this discussion highlights the bidirectional relationship between kidney and brain health. Join us as we unpack where brain injury begins and what this means for earlier recognition and improved patient care.
For more information on the Cerebronephrology Region of NephMadness please go to: https://ajkdblog.org/2026/03/01/nephmadness-2026-cerebronephrology-region/
This podcast explores the critical role of oral health in kidney transplant eligibility and outcomes. Through an interprofessional discussion, learners will examine how oral health impacts infection risk, transplant readiness, and long-term success. Notably, this episode features the valuable perspective of a dentist, highlighting the importance of integrating dental expertise into transplant care. Practical strategies for prevention, care coordination, and addressing access barriers will be highlighted to support patient-centered transplant care.
Advances in genetics have transformed how we understand kidney disease, and the discovery of APOL1 has been a major milestone. In this episode of Kidney Commute: Pitstop, host Dr. Osama El Shamy is joined by Meyeon Park, MD, MAS and Denay Richards, PhD to explore the role of APOL1 genetic variants in kidney disease development and progression.
The discussion covers the epidemiology of APOL1, the interplay between genetic risk and environmental factors, and scenarios in which APOL1 genetic testing may be considered. Speakers also address how test results are communicated to patients and families, implications for disease management, emerging research into APOL1 targeted therapies, and the significance of newly introduced ICD 10 codes for APOL1 mediated kidney disease.
After listening to the podcast, please complete the survey at https://kidneyforms.tfaforms.net/4728148.
This educational episode is supported by Vertex Pharmaceuticals.
Legislation has played a defining role in how dialysis care is delivered in the United States, directly influencing access, coverage, and patient choice. In this episode of Kidney Commute: Pitstop, host Osama El Shamy, MD, FASN, FNKF, is joined by Lauren Drew, JD, and Eugene Lin, MD, MS, FASN for an in depth discussion on the policy decisions that have shaped kidney care.
The conversation traces key legislative milestones, including the creation of the ESRD benefit, the Medicare dialysis bundle, Medicare Advantage expansion, and the Advancing American Kidney Health Initiative. Speakers also examine the current legislative landscape, its impact on dialysis patient choice, and opportunities for professional advocacy in kidney care.
Is dialysis nephrology’s greatest achievement or its original sin? In this Kidney Commute: Pit Stop episode, host Dr. Osama El Shamy, welcomes Dr. Andrew Cohen, to discuss a provocative question that challenges how the field of nephrology has evolved. Drawing from Dr. Cohen’s recent AJKD publication, the conversation explores key historical milestones, including early innovations, the 1972 Medicare amendment, and the rise of corporatized dialysis care. Together, they examine how these forces have shaped trainee perceptions, workforce recruitment, and the identity of nephrology today. The episode concludes with a forward-looking discussion on how the field can refocus priorities, embrace innovation, and chart a more balanced path beyond dialysis-centered care.
AJKD Article: https://www.ajkd.org/article/S0272-6386(25)00711-5/abstract
Navigating the transition from pediatric to adult kidney transplant care is one of the most pivotal and vulnerable periods for young patients. In this episode of the Kidney Commute, an interdisciplinary panel of nephrology, social work, nursing, pharmacy experts, and a kidney transplant recipient explore the medical, psychological, and social complexities that shape a successful transition. The discussion addresses readiness for independence, medication and insurance changes, adherence challenges, family dynamics, and coordinated handoffs between pediatric and adult teams. Through real-world insights and practical strategies, this episode highlights approaches to support continuity of care, protect graft survival, and empower young adults as they move into adult-centered transplant care.
This episode is complemented by additional insights from a psychologist who was unable to join the discussion; related resources are available at this link.
In this Kidney Commute: Pitstop episode, host Anna Gaddy, MD, FASN, FNKF, is joined by Kaice LaFavers, PhD, and Pranav Garimella, MBBS, MPH, to explore uromodulin. They discuss its role in infection defense, immune modulation, AKI and sepsis, genetic insights, and evolving methods to study its multiple forms. A concise, science driven look at why uromodulin matters in kidney health.
Effective management of obesity in patients with CKD requires a holistic, interprofessional approach. In part 2 of this episode, the conversation continues with translating the evolving evidence into practical guidance for nephrology teams. Experts review the importance of a person-centered approach integrating lifestyle interventions, pharmacologic therapies, and surgical options with a focus on safety, efficacy, and kidney-related outcomes. The discussion emphasizes how members of the nephrology care team can collaborate to personalize treatment, address appetite and nutrition concerns, and help patients achieve meaningful weight loss without compromising kidney health. Tune in for actionable insights and strategies to translate emerging science into individualized, kidney-friendly, weight management strategies.
Please be sure to visit the National Kidney Foundation's Obesity in the Nephrology Clinic page for additional information and access to an infographic designed to support clinical care for managing obesity in individuals living with CKD: https://www.kidney.org/professionals/tools/obesity-nephrology-clinic
Supported by Novo Nordisk
Obesity and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are deeply interconnected as each condition increases the risk and severity of the other. In part 1 of this episode, our interprofessional panel of experts explores the science behind this bidirectional relationship and the epidemiologic data underscoring their connection. Listeners will gain insight into the underlying pathophysiology, including the roles of inflammation, altered kidney hemodynamics, and lipotoxicity. Through practical discussion and dissection of the literature, this episode highlights the importance of recognizing obesity as both a cause and consequence of CKD, and the crucial role nephrology professionals play in interrupting this cycle early.
Please be sure to visit the National Kidney Foundation's Obesity in the Nephrology Clinic page for additional information and access to an infographic designed to support clinical care for managing obesity in individuals living with CKD: https://www.kidney.org/professionals/tools/obesity-nephrology-clinic
Supported by Novo Nordisk
When should dialysis be withheld at the end of life—and who makes that decision? Join host Raphy Rosen with experts Drs. Alvin Moss and Christine Corbett as they explore the ethical, clinical, and emotional challenges the nephrology team face when considering “no” to dialysis. Learn how shared decision-making, time-limited trials, and compassionate communication can help align care with patient values and improve end-of-life outcomes.
Host: Raphy Rosen, MD, FASN, FNKF
Panelists: Christine Corbett, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, CNN-NP, ACHPN, FNKF and Alvin H. Moss, MD, FACP, FAAHPM
In this episode, we explore the evolving role of surrogate endpoints in the management of IgA nephropathy (IgAN), with a particular focus on the significance of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Of the completed Phase 3 trials in IgAN, one used time-weighted average eGFR, an area under the curve-based measure that reflects the average change in eGFR from baseline over a specified period, in this case, over the full 2-year study period. The other trial used total eGFR slope to describe the overall rate of change over 2 years. But what do these endpoints mean outside the setting of a clinical trial? Expert insights shed light on how proteinuria and eGFR trends can inform prognosis and guide treatment decisions in clinical practice over the long term. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how to interpret eGFR changes over time and apply this knowledge to optimize patient care. Designed for nephrology professionals, this episode offers practical, evidence-based perspectives on integrating these surrogate endpoints into the care of patients with IgAN.
Supported by Calliditas Therapeutics
Upon completion of the podcast, please take a moment to complete a brief survey: https://kidneyforms.tfaforms.net/4728109
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects more than 35 million U.S. adults, yet only a small percentage see a dietitian before starting dialysis. In this episode of Kidney Commute, experts and a patient share how Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) can slow CKD progression, improve quality of life, and support patients in making sustainable dietary changes. Listeners will also gain practical insights on insurance coverage, referral pathways, and strategies to expand access to renal nutrition care.
In this Kidney Commute: Pitstop episode, host Dr. Osama El Shamy speaks with Drs. Susie Hu and Anthony Chang about the first AJKD Core Curriculum update since 2016 on localized renal masses. They unpack risk factors, incidental findings, treatment strategies, and the vital role nephrologists play—alongside urology and pathology—in preserving kidney function and improving patient care.
AJKD Article: https://www.ajkd.org/article/S0272-63862500973-4/fulltext
Join host Dr. Sam Kant and experts Dr. Craig Gordon and Dr. Pranav Garimella as they break down the latest AJKD Core Curriculum on Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD). This episode explores genetics, imaging, prognostic tools, lifestyle strategies, and management, offering practical, evidence-based insights to guide kidney care professionals.
AJKD Article: Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease: Core Curriculum 2025 - American Journal of Kidney Diseases
In this Kidney Commute episode, host Dr. Nupur Gupta is joined by Dr. Vandana Dua Niyyar, Cheryl Cress, RN, CNN, and home dialysis patient Jane DeMeis with her care partner Joe. They explore challenges and solutions in vascular access for home hemodialysis, including access types, self-cannulation, patient education, and real-world impacts. This interprofessional discussion blends clinical expertise and lived experience to improve patient outcomes.
This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners through August 12, 2027. If you'd like to claim credit, please go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete requirements.
This episode delves into the updated AJKD Core Curriculum on Continuous Kidney Replacement Therapies (CKRT). Host Anna Gaddy is joined by authors J. Pedro Teixeira, Swapnil Hiremath and Edward Clark, as they explore crucial topics like the practical advantages and disadvantages of CRRT, mechanisms of hemodynamic instability with KRT, and strategies for de-escalation. This episode provides valuable insights into the evolving world of kidney care and addresses key considerations for nephrology professionals. The full article can be found on the AJKD website here: https://www.ajkd.org/article/S0272-63862401120-X/fulltext
In this episode of the Kidney Commute: Pitstop* series, host, Raphy Rosen is joined by Christine Corbett and Alvin Moss to discuss active medical care without dialysis.
Host: Raphy Rosen, MD, FNKF
Guests: Christine Corbett, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, CNN-NP, ACHPN, FNKF & Alvin Moss, MD, FACP, FAAHPM
Please visit https://www.kidney.org/podcasts/kidney-commute to view additional resources.
*The Kidney Commute: Pitstop series was previously known as the NKF Life as a Nephrology Professional podcast.
Discover expert insights on kidney stone prevention and management in this episode featuring a physician, dietitian, pharmacist, and patient. Learn about key kidney stone risk factors and explore how dietary adjustments can reduce stone recurrence. Experts discuss fluid intake strategies, medication considerations, surgical indications, and even unconventional questions about roller coasters’ impact on stone passage. Tune in for actionable advice, myth-busting discussions, and interprofessional perspectives.
This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners. If you'd like to claim credit, please go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete requirements.
Palliative care, or treatment focused on symptom management and quality of life, is an important and often overlooked aspect of care for people with kidney disease. Similarly, conservative treatment of advanced kidney disease, or medical management without dialysis or transplantation, is not well understood by patients and care providers alike. In this episode of the Kidney Commute, our interprofessional team discusses these two important aspects of kidney disease care.
This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners. If you'd like to claim credit, please go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete requirements.
Cancer is the leading cause of death in the world, associated with high morbidity and mortality. This episode discusses how kidneys are affected by cancer and its treatment. Panelists discuss diagnosing and managing complex kidney problems, such as acute kidney injury associated with cancer and novel oncological therapies, as well as summarize drug dosing in patients with cancer. Thanks for joining us on this ride of the Kidney Commute.
This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners. If you'd like to claim credit, please go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete requirements.
2025 will bring BIG changes to the dialysis world. As of Jan 01, oral phosphorus binders will be part of the dialysis payment bundle, out-of-pocket costs for prescription medications are changing in amounts and payment models, and coverage for certain dental services is expanding, to name a few. In this episode we will explore how these changes will likely impact patients, nephrologists, and dialysis units. Thanks for joining us on this ride of the Kidney Commute!
This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners. If you'd like to claim credit, please go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete requirements.
Patients and care team members often encounter challenges faced by individuals from different cultural backgrounds regarding access to kidney transplantation. This episode explores the impact of a culturally sensitive approach to living donation. Panelists will discuss resources to assist with approaching these conversations effectively while taking into consideration patient-specific factors such as culture, ethnicity, language and religious beliefs. Thanks for joining us on this ride of the Kidney Commute.
This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners. If you'd like to claim credit, please go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete requirements.
Do all patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) need potassium restriction? In this episode we will explore the current guidelines of potassium intake in different CKD populations. Apart from the guidelines, we will explore the potassium concentration in foods and some tips and tricks for counseling patients. After listening to this episode, you will be in a better position to talk to patients about their potassium needs. Thanks for joining us on this ride of the Kidney Commute.
This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners. If you'd like to claim credit, go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete requirements.
People with kidney disease are at an increased risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, or ASCVD, and cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in people with kidney disease. In this episode of the Kidney Commute our interprofessional panel of experts discusses what ASCVD is, how patients can be evaluated for their ASCVD risk, and strategies for managing and reducing this risk. We cover risk calculators, pharmaceutical options, communication strategies, and areas where we can all work together to educate patients about risk. Thank you for joining us on this ride of The Kidney Commute!
Click here to claim CE Credit.
In this episode of the Kidney Commute podcast, panelists delve into the role of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists in chronic kidney disease. The discussion explores the mechanisms of GLP-1 receptor agonists, their benefits in managing both kidney disease and related comorbidities like diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and the latest evidence supporting their use. Panelists also address practical challenges faced by both patients and providers. Click here to claim CE Credit.
Home hemodialysis (HHD) is hemodialysis that is performed at home entirely by a patient or with assistance from a care partner. Solo HHD is when a person performs their own hemodialysis at home without a care partner present. Solo HHD can be challenging for patients and requires the whole care team coming together with the patient to develop an individualized approach for each patient in order to increase their likelihood of success. This episode will discuss common safety concerns and other barriers to solo HHD encountered by patients and offer some potential strategies for overcoming these.
Click here to claim CE credit.
Join our team in a discussion about diagnosis and treatment of glomerulonephritis, a common cause of kidney failure. We explore new treatment options and ways to engage patients in conversations about these options. Additionally, we unpack how to diagnose and monitor glomerulonephritis. This discussion also includes challenges faced both by patients and providers with regard to glomerulonephritis, especially for women of child-bearing age.
Click here to claim CE credits.
The management of patients living with kidney disease is evolving as the complexity of patient care evolves. Join us as we discuss the team of clinicians who are involved in the care of patients with kidney disease, including nephrologists and advanced practice providers (APPs) - advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) and physician assistants (PAs). This episode will review the roles of each provider type and what each brings to the team as well as the patients. It will also highlight the strengths of team-based care as well as what patients and their families can expect from an APP during clinic visits, hospitalizations, transplant workups, and on dialysis units.
Click here to claim CE credits.
Many people start the year full of hope and ready to start anew. Join our team in a discussion about the best times to implement new goals relative to CKD. We also explore home dialysis modalities and ways to engage patients in conversations about this option. Additionally, we unpack how and when to implement exercise programs and include tips on tackling social isolation. We hope you enjoy this podcast as you continue in this new year.
Click here to claim CE credits.
Join us for a robust discussion surrounding the ever-growing field of vitamins and supplements. This episode dives into the indications and contraindications for people with all stages of chronic kidney disease, including those on dialysis as well as those who have had a transplant. The panelists will also review the potential drug interactions and side effect profiles of the most commonly inquired about supplements. Which vitamins may be appropriate and when will be included in this episode as well.
Click here to claim CE credits.
Having a chronic illness can be difficult for anyone. Patients with Kidney disease have to restrict their diet and also balance out restrictions associated with other medical illnesses. Considering diet and fluid restrictions while planning family meals can be physically and emotionally taxing. In this episode, you will gain insight into the patient experience of planning around the holidays and professional teams knowledge in providing the best education for patients and the best holiday outcomes.
Click HERE to claim CE Credit.
Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy impact many pregnancies and are associated with significant maternal and fetal morbidity and even mortality. In this episode of the kidney commute, we are joined by a maternal fetal medicine (high risk obstetrics) expert, as well as a nephrologist, pharmacist, and patient to discuss these disorders. Patients with kidney disease are at elevated risk of developing hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and it is important that members of the kidney community be able to recognize and treat these conditions, as well as to know when to refer for more help.
Click HERE to claim CE Credit.
The National Kidney Foundation is excited bring to you an important conversation about awareness, sensitivity and understanding of the LGBTQ+ community. In this episode, we will discuss how the use of appropriate intake forms, use of pronouns and having open conversations can create an inclusive healthcare environment and create a shared decision making environment. Participants will receive education on what considerations should be made when exploring gender affirmation hormone therapy or surgery in their patient population. Gender-affirming hormone therapy can be taken as pills, patches, gels, or by injection. Hormone therapy can be given alone or with preparation for gender-affirming surgery. Want to learn more? Hop in and enjoy this episode of the Kidney Commute!
Click HERE to claim CE Credit.
In this episode, we discuss the process of working towards a kidney transplant. Exploring the steps from the perspective of the patient and the different members of the healthcare team. We find out when a referral for transplant is appropriate, as well as the testing required before a patient is deemed a good candidate for a kidney transplant.
Click HERE to claim CE Credit.
Transplant is the preferred modality for many people with end-stage renal disease. There are approximately 100,000 people waiting for a kidney transplant, with wait times exceeding 10 years in some regions. Join us on this ride as we discuss ways to find living donors as an alternative to a deceased donor kidney transplant. We will discuss the experience of living donors through the work up phase, the surgical phase, and throughout the emotional and physical healing phase of this life-saving gift.
Click HERE to claim CE Credit.
Sexual dysfunction (SD) is incredibly common in patients with kidney disease. In women, SD is classified as sexual interest/arousal disorder, orgasmic disorder, and genitopelvic pain/penetration disorder. For men, SD is classified as erectile disorder, hypoactive disorder, premature ejaculation, and delayed ejaculation. Studies have shown rates of SD as high as 92% of women with CKD and 70-85% of men, with increasing rates as kidney disease progresses. In this episode, our interdisciplinary team discusses why SD is so prevalent in patients with CKD, how it is discussed and diagnosed, some treatment options, and our thoughts on how to improve communication about this important but often neglected aspect of overall health.
Click HERE to take the pre-test, then return to claim CE Credit.
Access our resources here:
“Sexuality and Kidney Disease” from NKF Website: https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/sexuality
Rosy App
Having a chronic illness can be difficult for anyone. ESRD requires pre-planning to include 3 or more weekly dialysis sessions while traveling. Considering diet and fluid restrictions while planning family meals can be physically and emotionally taxing. In this episode, you will gain insight into the patient experience of planning around the holidays and professional teams knowledge in providing the best education for patients and the best holiday outcomes.
Click HERE to take the pre-test, then return to claim to claim CE Credit.
This episode discusses depression in people on dialysis in light of the PCORI-funded ASCEND study. Major depressive disorder is four times more common in people undergoing long-term dialysis than in the general population and is associated with greater non-adherence, higher healthcare utilization, poorer quality of life, and higher mortality. A panel discussion puts these results in perspective and discusses next steps in the treatment of depression from the vantage point of the study team.
Click HERE to claim CE Credit.
This episode discusses transitions of care for kidney patients. This includes patients who had never had any kidney issues who present to the hospital with acute kidney injury, some of whom require dialysis - at least temporarily. It includes patients who have known chronic kidney disease who crash into dialysis, as well as outpatient chronic kidney disease patients who are transitioning to outpatient dialysis.
These transitions can be hard for patients to undertake. It is our role as healthcare providers to understand their struggle and familiarize ourselves with the perspectives of the different players in patient care, as well as of course, the patients themselves.
Click HERE to claim CE Credit.
Becoming a new parent can be overwhelming. A major difficulty facing new parents is determining how best to feed their new baby, and when you have kidney disease there are additional risks and benefits regarding breastfeeding versus formula feeding. In this episode of the Kidney Commute we are joined by experts who will address some of the unique issues facing new parents with kidney disease when it comes to breastfeeding, including the most up to date recommendations and safety of various medications to the breastfeeding infant. Given the current formula shortages, this is a very pertinent conversation that many kidney patients with infants are having right now and we hope to shed light on this important issue.
Click HERE to claim CE Credit.
In this episode, the interprofessional panel will discuss the various treatment modalities available to ESKD patients. The team will outline treatment options, pros and cons of treatment options for different patients, and how treatment planning can improve patient outcomes. Hear a dietitian and social worker review the dietary and psychosocial implications of different treatment modalities.
Click HERE to claim CE Credit.
In this episode we discuss salt intake in the setting of chronic kidney disease. We start our discussion defining salt vs sodium and further discuss the physiology and outcomes of a high-sodium diet. We also review the guidelines and some helpful tips on implementing them. Understanding that patient challenges to a low-sodium diet might be present, we hear from our multidisciplinary panel on recommendations to overcome these problems. The episode finishes with a review, and discussion of the beneficial outcomes of successful implementation of a low-sodium diet.
Click HERE to claim CE Credit.
After listening, check out episode 12 of NKF's Hot Topics in Kidney Health podcast series, How Much Sodium is Safe for Kidney Patients?
In this episode of the Kidney Commute will explore the issues that are specific to women with kidney disease who undergo kidney transplant. Our interprofessional team includes a physician, Dr. Silvi Shah, who explores topics such as family planning after transplant, the impact that transplant has on fertility, and graft monitoring during pregnancy. Amanda Trinsey, who has a kidney transplant, discusses her experiences navigating pregnancy after transplant. Lisa Coscia offers information from a nursing perspective, as well as highlights the resources available from Transplant Pregnancy Registry International. Heather Hames highlights medication changes and monitoring that are key to a successful pregnancy after transplant, and Leah Madden explains how a transplant coordinator supports a woman with her reproductive journey. Finally, Amanda Earley discusses how a social worker can round out the interdisciplinary team approach to reproductive health after kidney transplant. All members of the interprofessional kidney team can learn something new from this insightful discussion!
Limited or low Health literacy impacts about 80 million Americans. It is associated with poor health outcomes and upwards of $236 billion in health care costs. Health literacy affects everyone, and most negatively effects communities of color. It is important to realize that limited health literacy is not always associated with education level and regardless of education, everyone should be evaluated. In this episode, you will learn how providers can influence health literacy and implement evaluation and intervention strategies in their practice settings. You will hear a patient account of the impression each individual has on improving health literacy in patients.
Frailty syndrome is a multi-system impairment resulting in decreased reserve and resistance to stressors. For those living with renal disease and pursuing transplant this syndrome is measured by many transplant centers as frailty can impact post-transplant outcomes. Join us as we explore more about frailty risk factors, how it is measured, its impact, and how the multi-disciplinary team can address components leading to frailty.
Infection is a major cause of morbidity and mortality for patients with kidney disease, and vaccines are the cornerstone of preventing infection. Nephrologists often provide general health care to their patients so the kidney health team is well suited to address what is typically a primary practitioners area. It’s a timely topic, as we are in the midst of pandemic, however the discussion in this episode addresses vaccines beyond COVID 19.
This episode is the first in a series of three that will focus on women's health and the kidney. This discussion focuses on the importance of interprofessional team communication and implementing shared decision making, as well as using an individualized approach when it comes to understanding the preferences of women with kidney disease. Amanda, a kidney disease patient and mother of three, discusses her experience navigating her care with her health team.
This episode discusses a topic important to all kidney patients: protein intake in the diet. It's a question asked often by patients, and can be difficult to address by providers. Recommendations change based on a patient's individual health situation, and the support of the interprofessional team can make these conversations easier to approach. The panel provides a basic overview of protein, recommendations to approaching patient education on protein intake, and emphasizes the importance of the kidney health team working together to help patients navigate this tough question.
This episode provides an introduction to the kidney health team through an exploration of the roles and responsibilities of key members. Panelists discuss how the team can have healthy and productive interactions, and how the kidney health team can best work collaboratively with each other and patients to help navigate patient care and achieve optimal outcomes.
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