Employers' guide to chronic kidney disease (CKD) While some patients may qualify for state benefits when they fall ill, persisting with work after being diagnosed with chronic kidney disease holds immense importance for many individuals. The knowledge that they can still contribute to society provides a sense of self-worth and respect. Maintaining a regular routine without relying solely on state benefits allows them to continue supporting their families. Employers often have questions when an employee discloses this long-term condition, and this information leaflet aims to address those questions and alleviate any concerns, enabling you to offer optimal support to your employee. What is CKD? Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a term used by doctors to include any abnormality of the kidneys, even if the damage is minimal. The term ‘chronic’ indicates a condition that does not fully resolve. CKD is categorized into five stages. Stages 1-3 involve a gradual decline in kidney function, which can be managed by a general practitioner in primary care. Patients who progress to stage 4 are referred to a nephrologist, a specialist kidney doctor. Stage 5, known as End Stage Renal Disease, occurs when the kidneys can no longer effectively remove toxic waste from the blood. Treatment options at this stage include dialysis or kidney transplantation. It’s important to note that kidney disease is not contagious, and it is not caused by alcohol abuse. Symptoms of CKD stages 4 and 5 In stage 4 of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), symptoms can include: Urinating: More or less often than usual. Itchy and/or dry skin. Fatigue. Trouble concentrating. Numbness or swelling in arms, legs, ankles, or feet In stage 5, also known as kidney failure, symptoms may include: Nausea. Vomiting. Loss of appetite. Fatigue and weakness. Changes in urine output and fluid build up, leading to chest pain or shortness of breath Treatment for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) CKD treatment involves two main approaches, collectively known as Renal Replacement Therapy: Haemodialysis: This method removes waste products and excess fluids from the blood when the kidneys are no longer functioning properly. Blood is pumped through a machine that acts as an artificial kidney. Access to the blood is typically through needles inserted into a specially created access point (fistula) in the arm. Haemodialysis can be done at a renal centre or even at home. Peritoneal Dialysis: In this approach, dialysis occurs within the body. The peritoneal membrane lining in the abdomen acts as a natural filter. A tube is surgically inserted into the abdomen, and special dialysis fluid is introduced. Waste and excess fluid pass from the blood into the fluid, which is then drained out. Peritoneal dialysis can be done manually (up to 4 exchanges during a 24hr period ) or by an automated machine overnight. Kidney Transplant: An alternative treatment option for kidney disease is a kidney transplant. This can be either from a living donor, often a family member (and increasingly, altruistic donors), or from a deceased donor who had previously consented through the NHS organ donor register. It’s important to note that all kidney treatments are offered free of charge by the NHS. Will treatment affect work? Advancements in CKD treatment have allowed patients to maintain an active lifestyle while undergoing renal replacement therapy. Although initial fatigue may be common, once treatment is established, it should not impact employment attendance Will the employee require any adaptation to their working schedule Patients who opt for dialysis treatment at a renal unit typically attend three sessions per week, scheduled at fixed times. Fortunately, many units can accommodate patients’ work schedules. For instance, if a patient works night shifts, an early morning dialysis slot can be arranged. Similarly, those working during the day can opt for evening sessions. Peritoneal Dialysis Considerations Patients undergoing manual peritoneal dialysis may need a designated space, such as a first aid room, where they can perform their dialysis exchanges. This ensures privacy and safety during the procedure. Flexible Work Arrangements Employers should explore flexible working hours and adaptations to accommodate dialysis patients. For example, heavy lifting tasks may need to be reassigned for patients on peritoneal dialysis. Each patient’s situation is unique, so individual criteria must be considered. Transplant Patients and Work Resumption Most transplant recipients can resume regular work after a recovery period following surgery. If a patient is awaiting a non-living donor transplant, they may be called to the hospital at short notice. In contrast, living donor transplants are scheduled, allowing time for leave arrangements. Laws concerning employment Under the Equality Act 2010 in the UK, you are considered disabled if you have a physical or mental impairment that significantly and persistently affects your ability to perform normal daily activities. Specifically: Substantial: The impact must be more than minor or trivial, such as taking significantly longer to complete tasks like getting dressed. Long-term: The effect should last for 12 months or more, even if it fluctuates or recurs. Progressive conditions: If your condition worsens over time, you’re still protected. Employers are legally prohibited from discriminating against employees based on disability. They must make reasonable adjustments to prevent disabled employees from being disadvantaged compared to their non-disabled counterparts. These adjustments may include adjusting working hours or providing specialised equipment An employer cannot select an employee for redundancy solely based on disability. During the recruitment process, employers are restricted in their inquiries about health or disability. Additionally, employers cannot compel an employee to retire due to disability. www.gov.uk/if-you-become-disabledDownload this Information in PDF The National Kidney Federation cannot accept responsibility for information provided The above is for guidance only. Patients are advised to seek further information from their own doctor. © 2020 - 2030 National Kidney Federation (NKF) All rights reserved. Manage Cookie Preferences