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ENHANCING LIFESTYLE THROUGH HOME HAEMODIALYSIS
Author(s) -
Blogg A.,
Hyde C.
Publication year - 2006
Publication title -
journal of renal care
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.381
H-Index - 27
eISSN - 1755-6686
pISSN - 1755-6678
DOI - 10.1111/j.1755-6686.2006.tb00018.x
Subject(s) - medicine , dialysis , medical prescription , nocturnal , physical therapy , nursing
SUMMARY The Sydney Dialysis Centre (SDC) supports 150 patients who dialyze in the home environment. Since its inception SDC has been assisting patients to modify their dialysis regime according to individual needs. In 2003–2004 a postal survey was sent to SDC patients who had changed their dialysis regime to ascertain the effect of this change on lifestyle. This article will present the results of the survey with regard to patients who dialyze nocturnally (LND) and for longer hours (LH). The patients experience will be presented in relation to their reason for modifying treatment, resultant changes in diet and medication prescription and their subjective experience of wellbeing. Findings indicate that patients who dialyse nocturnally and for longer hours experience improved sense of wellbeing, diet control and increased energy levels. While nocturnal dialysis does not suit all patients, the respondents in this survey reported benefits such as: increased opportunity for employment; less restrictions on free time; improved blood results and better lifestyle.