QUALITY OF LIFE OF CHRONIC RENAL FAILURE PATIENTS UNDERGOING OUT-OF-HOME HEMODIALYSIS: A NURSE'S EXPERIENCE REPORT

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Chronic renal failure (CRF), due to its pathophysiological, psychological and socioeconomic aspects, represents a worldwide public health problem. The incidence and prevalence of this terminal pathology are increasing in Brazil and the costs of treating the disease are high. METHODOLOGY: The methodology of the study used was a qualitative approach of the experience report type, experienced by the author at the time she was responsible for monitoring the transportation of patients in a bus to another city to undergo hemodialysis treatment. The study started with a systematic review of the literature, of a descriptive and exploratory nature, that is, a study of secondary sources on the theme in question. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: However, for this study the topics that address quality of life were considered, such as: work/education, health, housing, food, leisure, economic factors, and social relationships. Based on my experience as a nurse during trips that lasted more than twelve hours inside a bus, three times a week, there were many dialogues for long hours individually and also in groups, in which we could learn and evaluate the quality of life of these patients. CONCLUSION: With the implantation of hemodialysis clinics in the patient's own municipality, more free time would be required so that the patient could enjoy social and family life, have access to other necessary health treatments, have a balanced eating routine, leisure activities, have a decent job and continue their studies, thus improving their quality of life.