Lived experiences of patients undergoing hemodialysis in Iloilo City

Abstract

Chronic Kidney Disease is a life-threatening condition in which the kidney loses its normal function. Treatment for CKD focuses on slowing the progression of kidney damage, thus it could be fatal without Dialysis. Understanding the lived experiences of patients receiving hemodialysis is important for improving the quality of care and support for these patients. This study was conducted to gain a more profound insight into the experiences of patients undergoing hemodialysis in hospitals and hemodialysis centers, to facilitate a reevaluation of the services offered that could elevate patient satisfaction. Respondents were selected in hemodialysis centers and Hospitals in Iloilo City. A descriptive phenomenological approach was utilized to describe, explore, and understand the patients’ experiences by conducting an unstructured interview. Information and data were analyzed using Colaizzi's qualitative phenomenological method. Thirteen patients aged between 18 and 59, minimum of 1 year history of hemodialysis participated in the study. After data analysis, 5 major themes and 14 sub-themes were extracted. These major themes were: (1) Quality of Nursing Care, (2) Access to and Utilization of Support, (3) Patient Coping Strategies, (4) Challenges of Hemodialysis and (5) Treatment Experience and Quality Care Comparison between Hospital and Dialysis Center. The participants themselves validated these experiences upon confirming the findings, providing firsthand insight and clarification into their shared experiences. While not universally applicable, these insights can inform tailored approaches by providers, potentially improving patient satisfaction and quality of life in hemodialysis care.