Exploring the concepts of compliance, adherence, and self-management in people living with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is imperative. The literature indicates that compliance and adherence behaviours are poorly understood within the renal client population. Preliminary research on self-management suggests that when practitioners include the patients' beliefs, values, and concerns into the recommended treatment regimen, CKD client outcomes improved. Nursing professionals need to shift their practice to incorporate self-management strategies. Examining the theoretical foundation of self-management as well as qualitative and quantitative research findings will provide nurses with innovative directions to enhance client care and suggest future research on individuals diagnosed with CKD.