EDTNA/ERCA — the scientific activity of renal nurses

Abstract

The progress in medicine and changes in the care of patients with kidney diseases have contributed to the rapid development of renal nursing. However, due to the economic and cultural differences progress is not the same in all countries. Because of that, trends in the global nursing focus on establishing an expanded international cooperation in order to benefit from the achievements and share their own. Response to the need of integration is the European Dialysis and Transplant Nurses Association/European Renal Care Association — EDTNA/ERCA, established in 1971, which goal is to achieve the best standards of treatment and support for patients and their families through continuous education. The Association provides a rich platform for the exchange of knowledge and experience between specialists of different professional groups (e.g. nurses, technicians, scientists, teachers). EDTNA/ERCA conducts a number of research projects which are presented at the annual conference and available on the website. There have been also published about 50 publications till this day. Using modern technology, the Association provides fast communication in the community and creates new sources of education. Thanks that EDTNA/ERCA is The Leading Multi-disciplinary Renal Care Association in Europe.