How to design an anemia management protocol.

An anemia management protocol ensures consistent treatment of anemia in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients by basing a treatment plan on the evaluation of hematocrit values and iron stores, the provision of safe and effective iron supplementation the systematic dosing of recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO), and careful monitoring of patient' outcomes. The protocol must be designed specifically for the institution in which it will be implemented. This article outlines the steps an institution can take to develop and implement an anemia management protocol and includes a case study on how. The Centers for Dialysis Care in Cleveland. OH designed and implemented a protocol in their seven facilities.