Determination of adaptation levels and applications for fistulas care and protection to disease of patients with arteriovenous fistula

The aim of this study was to the determinate adaptation to chronic disease and applications for arteriovenous fistula (AVF) care and protection of hemodialysis (HD) patients with an AVF, and to determine the relationships between adaptation and application. Methods: This research is a prospective, descriptive, and cross-sectional type of research. The universe of the study accounted for 180 patients who underwent HD. The research was completed with 114 patients. The research was conducted from July 2019 to September 2019, in two different dialysis centers in Osmaniye Province. The data were collected using The Patient Identification Form and Adaptation to Chronic Illness Scale. Mean ± Standard deviation, percentages, and independent samples t-test analysis were used. Results: When the scale scores of the patients participating in the study were evaluated, determined to level of total adaptation with chronic disease and physical adaptation was to above the average score (40.24 ± 5.99). Social adaptation (21.82 ± 6.39) and psychological adaptation (22.91 ± 5.39) levels can be said to be moderate. Individuals who exercised with the ball to mature the fistula, who was careful to dress and keep the area dry on the 1st day of the operation, who was careful not to apply lotion to the fistula area, and who complied with the fluid restriction were found to have higher levels of adaptation with the disease. Conclusion: It can be said that the patients who make the right application for fistula care and protection have in general adaptation levels can also be said to be high. The level of adaptation is effective for applications. The level of adaptation is effective on applications for AVF care and protection.