What it means
The final, most advanced stage of a chronic disease, when an organ has lost nearly all its function. Examples are end-stage renal diseaseEND-stayj REE-nul dih-ZEEZThe last stage of chronic kidney disease, when the kidneys have lost almost all of their function for good.ren/o kidney-al relating toFull entry , when the kidneys can no longer keep a person alive without dialysis or a transplant, end-stage liver disease and end-stage heart failure. It often leads to talks about palliative or hospice care.
For the nurse
Ask about the client's goals and advance directives, and include comfort, symptom control and family support in the plan of care.
At a glance
| Also written | end stage |
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Related terms
palliative care
Care that relieves pain, other symptoms and stress for people with serious illness, at any stage and alongside other treatment.
end-stage renal disease
The last stage of chronic kidney disease, when the kidneys have lost almost all of their function for good.
hospice
Care for people expected to live about six months or less, focused on comfort and quality of life rather than cure.