title: [Subjective quality of life in patients undergoing long-term maintenance hemodialysis treatment: a qualitative perspective].
abstract: The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the subjective "quality of life" experience of patients undergoing long-term maintenance hemodialysis treatment at a southern Taiwan hospital. A purposive sample of fourteen patients was selected to participate in in-depth audio-taped interviews. Data were analyzed using the content analysis method. Findings delineated five quality of life themes and ten sub-themes for hemodialysis patients. These included: (1) Physical functions (normal life disrupted by physical symptoms, lack of vigor); (2) Psychological functions (emotional instability, impaired sense of self); (3) Social functions (dependence upon family, restricted lifestyle and social life); (4) Economic status (fewer work opportunities, financial needs covered by the National Health Insurance); and (5) Overall quality of life (perceived poor quality of life, reluctant acceptance of situation). Study findings may help health professionals implement appropriate interventions as well as provide a working outline for social workers. In addition, findings may be referenced in the revision and further development of national health insurance policies.
authors.affiliation: Department of Social Work, Sin Lau Hospital, Madou Branch.
authors.forename: Feng-Cheng
authors.initials: FC
authors.lastname: Ko
authors.forename: Bih-O
authors.initials: BO
authors.lastname: Lee
authors.forename: Hui-Tzu
authors.initials: HT
authors.lastname: Shih
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011788:Quality of Life; D006435:Renal Dialysis / Q000523:psychology*