ADHERENCE TO HEMODIALYSIS TREATMENT: THE PERCEPTION OF CHRONIC RENAL PATIENTS

Abstract

This descriptive exploratory study, with a qualitative approach, aimed to identify factors which influence adherence to hemodialysis treatment in the perception of chronic renal patients. A total of 35 patients participated, who were assisted by a public hemodialysis service in a state capital in the Northeast of Brazil, with data collection taking place between May and August 2014. The information was collected through a semistructured questionnaire and was analyzed using the ALCESTE software. The main factors that influence adherence were: transport difficulties, deficit of knowledge regarding the illness, limitations of the treatment, problems experienced in the hemodialysis sessions, control of the rates through laboratory examinations, religious faith, the hemodialysis machine, and social support. It is considered, therefore, that the factors influencing adherence are complex, making it necessary to undertake multi-professional activity in order to understand this phenomenon, and to develop educational strategies with a view to raising individuals’ awareness regarding the importance of adherence to the treatment and possible improvement in quality of life.

Keywords

• Chronic renal failure
• Renal dialysis
• Patient cooperation