Gerogianni Stavroula
Background: Chronic Renal Failure (CRF) is a public health problem that tends to take dimensions of epidemic and has serious impact on quality of patient’s life. Aim: The aim of the present study was to review the literature and to explore the psychological impact of dialysis on the quality of life of people with chronic renal failure. Material - Method: Literature review based on studies and reviews derived from international (Medline, PubMed, Cinahl, Scopus) and Greek (Iatrotek) data bases concerning psychological problems of people with renal failure. The collection of data conducted from March to December 2012. Also, were used keywords such as haemodialysis, psychological factors, social status, economic status, renal failure, quality of life, as well as articles by the National Documentation Centre, which provided valid and documented data from global research and epidemiology. Results: According to the literature, Chronic Renal Failure is associated with long-term psychological effects on patients undergoing haemodialysis. A chronic illness, such as kidney failure, is a continuous process since these patients try to accept their new image and to adapt their lifestyle to dialysis treatment. Patients with kidney disease undergoing regular dialysis face difficulties in maintaining their employment, their social life, their financial flexibility and their limitation of liquids and foods. Conclusion: Complexity and chronic nature of the disease affect the quality of life of patients with CRF and their health and reduce their life expectancy. So, the role of the Nephrology Nurse is highly important for the implementation of effective nursing interventions and psychological support during their treatment.
