Introduction:

Advanced chronic kidney disease is a significant public health problem; it reduces the life expectancy and quality of life of those who suffer from it, affects many people, and represents a burden for the health system.

Nurses, in their role as educators, must carry out actions to prevent the disease. It is interesting to learn about their experiences in the care of renal patients in primary health care, as this is where the progression of the disease is prevented.

Objective:

To describe the experience of nursing professionals in primary health care in the care of patients with chronic kidney disease.

Materials and Method:

Qualitative study, with a sample of 10 nurses working in different primary health care centres in Copiapó (Chile). A semi-structured interview and data analysis were conducted using open coding in the Atlas Ti program.

Results:

Four categories emerged: factors related to quality of care, nursing care management, multidisciplinary care, and conditioning elements for nursing care. Significant limitations for the care of the renal patient were evidenced: lack of time and specific consultations for follow-up, limited professional training in the subject, and socio-economic factors of the patient that influence care.

Conclusions:

Including specific care for renal patients in primary care and training nurses are essential tools for improving the care of patients with advanced chronic kidney disease.