Immunization Recommendations for Pediatric Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease, Nephrotic Syndrome, and Renal Transplants: A Literature Review and Quality Improvement Project.
Pediatric patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have an increased risk of developing vaccine-preventable diseases due to reduced immunization coverage. Studies have demonstrated that reduced immunization coverage in this population is related to barriers, such as frequent hospitalization, lack of knowledge, and concerns about safety and efficacy. This article examines a nurse practitioner-led quality improvement project (QIP) conducted in an outpatient pediatric nephrology clinic. The QIP focused on educating pediatric providers related to age-appropriate immunizations for children with CKD or nephrotic syndrome, and those who are renal transplant candidates and recipients. A process is now in place to review immunization records upon initial visit and annually, and to notify primary care providers of current recommendations for this population.