Daily life of a woman undergoing hemodialysis

Abstract

Objective: understanding the daily life of a woman undergoing hemodialysis. Method: qualitative study conducted with 9 women by means of interviews in February and March 2013 in the hemodialysis unit of a hospital in Zona da Mata (Minas Gerais), Brazil. Results: the comprehensive analysis unveiled 3 units of meaning: having a chronic kidney disease and facing hemodialysis, hemodialysis and its reactions, the daily life of a woman treated with hemodialysis. Feelings of fear and rejection were noticed. However, religion and family proved to be important for acceptance and hope during treatment. Conclusion: we highlight the importance of the nurse's role in the substitutive renal therapy service. This professional works as an educator, promoting selfcare and assisting the female patients to find new ways to live according to their own limitations.