Quality of life in end - stage renal disease: a qualitative analysis

Aim: The presenting of views both of haemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis patients concerning the meaning of quality of life in general, the factors that affect individual’s quality of life as well as the dimensions which patients themselves consider that they affect their quality of life. Material and Method: For data collection, semi-directed interviews were selected. The three questions which were answered by patients were referring to the meaning of quality of life as well as to the influence factors. The factors which affect patients’ quality of life, according to them, were also investigated. As far as the material of the specific qualitative analysis is concerned, 20 patients with end-stage renal disease participated. Specifically, 10 haemodialysis patients and 10 peritoneal dialysis patients. The interviews took place in November 2006. Results: Four patients in haemodialysis considered that not only the lack of independence but also the restrictions on entertainment are two of the most important factors that affect their everyday life. Regarding peritoneal dialysis patients, seven of them reported that the support of family affect their quality of life. Conclusions: The time which patient with chronic renal failure spends in the artificial kidney disease is an essential barrier for a normal life.