The potential for burnout and acopia amongst home haemodialysis patients and carers is a real issue in the haemodialysis settings. In an attempt to alleviate potential stressors, Toowoomba Home Haemodialysis Nurses have implemented strategies to acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of ordinary people achieving technical skills to perform haemodialysis safely and independently in the self care/home haemodialysis setting.

Our holistic and multidisciplinary approach in supporting our patients and families has assisted in:
• The Transitional training period of home haemodialysis
• Raising TLC levels
• Improving self esteem, confidence, independence

In order to identify and alleviate potential stressors, the Toowoomba Home Haemodialysis Nurses have implemented the following:
• Quarterly home visits are conducted and if necessary more frequent visits implemented to patients when required
• Fortnightly phone calls between visits for the opportunity to express concerns and stress triggers
• Quarterly catered luncheon for patients and biannually luncheon for carers
• Acknowledgement of patient birthdays via phone and card
• Respite sessions at Toowoomba Base Hospital for rural patients in collaboration with Red Cross accommodation
• A 12 month calendar has been produced for the first time in celebration of patient and carers achievements in managing self care haemodialysis

The implementation of these events and opportunities has assisted in social networking and support amongst patients and families and assisting in the reduction of burn out and stress. Feedback received from patients and carers has been positive and uplifting and continuing such events and opportunities will improve quality outcomes for all.