Conservative care in Europe—nephrologists’ experience with the decision not to start renal replacement therapy

Abstract

Nephrologists estimated conservative care was provided to up to 15% of their patients in 2009. The presence of severe clinical conditions, vascular dementia and a low physical functional status are important factors in the decision-making not to start RRT. Patient preference was considered as a very important factor, confirming the importance of extensive patient education and shared decision-making.