The Lived Experiences of Hemodialysis Patients in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: A Phenomenological Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48017/dj.v11i4.3418Keywords:
Challenges, coping, mental heathAbstract
Hemodialysis is a life-sustaining and life-changing experience. This study employed a qualitative phenomenological approach to explore the experiences of hemodialysis patients in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. . To enhance rigor and trustworthiness, prolonged engagement, member checking, detailed descriptions, and audit trails were observed. Further, Cresswell's interpretative design was utilized to interpret and analyze results. This study reveals hemodialysis patients' experiences, challenges, and coping strategies. Two main themes emerged from the key findings: impacts on the mental well-being of hospitalization, patient satisfaction with the care received in the hospital, and the importance of coordinated care. Personal experiences would convey that hemodialysis was considered an artificial kidney and filter, which is critically important but laborious and challenging in necessity and impacts life quality. The challenges faced by patients were laid out as their mental well-being, such as depression and anxiety, and financial constraints. In controlling these struggles, patients entrust themselves with several strategies, including obeying the generated instructions from their therapists, leading a healthy life by exercising, and learning about their illness. There was also a great need for mental strength, acceptance, and support from both family and friends and, apart from the above, engaging in physical therapy to bring back the sense of normalcy and well-being. Overall, this profound understanding will point out more improvements in the systems of care and support given to patients.
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