LIVED EXPERIENCES OF PATIENTS WITH HEMODIALYSIS IN CHITWAN

Abstract

Background: Chronic Kidney Disease is a serious, long-term illness that is increasing rapidly worldwide. Hemodialysis is the treatment option for the patients with this disease, which affects their daily life in both positive and negative perspective. This study was undertaken to explore the lived experiences of patients with hemodialysis in Chitwan.

Methods: Qualitative descriptive phenomenological study was used and a total twelve patients receiving hemodialysis from 11th August 2019 to 9th September 2019 were selected purposively for the study. Data were collected using in-depth interview guidelines and analyzed using Colaizzi’s seven steps of analysis.

Results: Five themes and eighteen subthemes were extracted from the study. They were i) perception about chronic kidney disease (irremediable condition, lethal illness and strenuous ailment with living in confinement) ii) pathway to illness identification (symptoms experience, diagnostic journey and treatment options iii) meaning of living with hemodialysis (renewed hope of survival, uncertainty of life, restricted lifestyle and substandard quality of living) iv) impact of hemodialysis on daily life (soothing effect on body, physical discomfort due to side-effects, mental anguish, social detachment, breach in relationship and economic adversity) and v) journey towards adaptation (acceptance of illness and inability of coping).

Conclusions: Patients perceive hemodialysis as a hope for survival and tool for relieving their physical tribulations. But they also experience various physical, psychological, social and financial troubles in their daily life. Hence, it is mandatory for health care providers to understand their experiences to provide them need based holistic care. Nepal government also needs to formulate health policy addressing the need of hemodialysis patients.