The dark side of the moon: how clients face dialysis

Abstract

Summary Patients requiring haemodialysis experience various problems, some of which are caused by the medical treatment. We explored various aspects of a haemodialysis patients life, to focus on the effects that their treatment had on their daily life. The aim of this study was “to know the life of the respondent, in order to improve the quality of the assistance.” This pilot study allowed the staff to plan arrangements in order that the patient could pursue a “normal life”.

The Lived Experience of the Person Dependent on Haemodialysis

“…There has been much research carried out to date looking at the experiences of chronic haemodialysis patients using varying focuses. The majority use quality of life, the impact of being connected to the dialysis machine and the home dialysis programme as their guide (Nagle 1998; Bruno 1999; Suet‐Ching 2001; Polaschek 2003; Hagren et al 2005). Studies report drastic changes in quality of life, affecting a person's physical, psychological, psycho‐social, emotional and routine everyday aspects of life (Cleary & Drennan 2005; Niu & Li 2005; Timmers et al 2008).…”

A descriptive study of meaning of illness in chronic renal disease

“…Its exploration in renal patients was considered worthwhile as renal failure is chronic and life-threatening, and its treatment very demanding (Devins et al 1990). Not surprisingly therefore dif®culties in adjustment to renal failure are widely reported (Bame et al 1993, Killingworth & Van Den Akker 1996 , Grefberg 1998, Bowman & Martin 1999, Bruno 1999, White & Grenyer 1999, Merkus et al 2000.…”

“…Not surprisingly therefore difficulties in adjustment to renal failure are widely reported (Bame et al . 1993, Killingworth & Van Den Akker 1996, Grefberg 1998, Bowman & Martin 1999, Bruno 1999, White & Grenyer 1999, Merkus et al . 2000).…”

A Case Study ‐ Initiation of Haemodialysis

“…• The patient will be informed about the possibility of undergoing transplantation, which means that she will not have to receive haemodialysis for the rest of her life. • The patient will be shown a video, explaining issues regarding haemodialysis and transplantation (7), while she will be introduced to other patients who receive haemodialysis, or have undergone transplantation, as they can offer psychological support to her (12). • After the classes, the patient will be encouraged to have a tour of the dialysis unit accompanied by some of the members of the renal team (7).…”