Psychological care of the haemodialysis patient.
The psychological care of patients at the haemodialysis unit is becoming an increasingly important aspect of the overall treatment of patients with end-stage renal failure. As more is understood and reported regarding the impact of psychological factors on physical processes it becomes crucial that good quality psychological care is delivered to patients by nurses working at the haemodialysis unit. This study aimed to look at haemodialysis patients' perceptions of their treatment to discover if a dialysis centre in Southern England might benefit from a more formal system of psychological care. The data revealed four main themes that were of particular importance to the participants of this study: The New Self, Coping, Medical Concerns and Psychological Care. Within these areas of importance, the need for good quality information, the need for a suitable dialysis environment and the importance of social and family support were evident. Although the psychological care system that was in place at the unit appeared to be working well a more formal system of care might improve the patient experience.
Bath
J
J
Health Psychology Department, Renal Unit, Gloucestershire Royal Hospital, Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Trust, Gloucester, UK.
Tonks
S
S
Edwards
P
P
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D001293:Attitude to Death; D001828:Body Image; D004739:England; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D007676:Kidney Failure, Chronic / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy; D008016:Life Change Events; D008875:Middle Aged; D008960:Models, Psychological; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000592:standards; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D006435:Renal Dialysis / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000523:psychology*; D012649:Self Concept; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires