Miss Tina Nhi Tay1, Mrs Sheeba Mathai1, Mrs Airisse Cortez1, Mrs Deepa Ghimire1, Mr Anthony Truong1
1Royal Prince Alfred Hospital – Sydney Local Health District, Camperdown, Australia
Biography:
Bio to come
Abstract:
Background
Home haemodialysis (HHD) offers improved quality of life, autonomy and flexibility compared with hospital-based therapy. Vascular access challenges remain a significant barrier to uptake and sustainability of self-care. Self-cannulation of conventional metal needles is associated with infiltration, restricted movement and patient reported anxiety. This may influence patient choice, discouraging HHD as a treatment modality.
Aim
To evaluate the feasibility, safety and patient experience of introducing plastic cannulae as an alternative to metal needles in home haemodialysis.
Methods
A nurse-led quality improvement initiative has been implemented within a home haemodialysis training unit using a structured risk assessment aligned with the local risk management framework. Patients are selected based on vascular access suitability, clinical stability and capacity for self-management. Implementation followed a staged approach incorporating targeted education, supervised in-unit cannulation and transition to independent home use. Data collection has commenced and includes access-related complications, need for staff intervention and patient-reported experience measures collected at timed intervals.
Results
Early results indicate reduced vessel trauma and improved cannulation tolerance with plastic cannulae, supported by enhanced haemostasis and access stability. There have been no reported needle dislodgement events, significant infiltrations or aborted dialysis sessions once transitioned to the home environment. Patients expressed greater comfort and increased confidence in self-cannulation, factors associated with improved treatment adherence.
Conclusion
The introduction of plastic cannulae into HHD demonstrates a patient-centred approach, enabling choice in clinical care. This nurse-led initiative highlights how adapting care to diverse patient needs can strengthen sustainable home dialysis models and supports every patient voice.