Introduction:

People with chronic kidney disease on dialysis therapy and their caregivers have different needs, which require explanations.

Aim:

To integrate the findings of available literature on the needs of people with chronic kidney disease on dialysis therapy and their caregivers.

Material and Method:

Literature review. 37 studies were included after their critical review. The extraction, systematization and integration of findings was carried out using a content analysis technique.

Results:

The findings were grouped into five themes: Need for promotion of adaptation and coping; Information and education requirement; Need for follow-up and retraining; Promotion of their decision-making capacity and Need for closer links with the health team.

Conclusions:

The practice of nephrology nursing care requires the continuous construction of the link with chronic kidney disease patients and their caregiver, which permit to identify and satisfy their needs. It is imperative to promote autonomy and empowerment, pointing toward consciousness in decision-making and health management. The evidence supports the need for continuity in education, support, follow-up and links.