The experiences of suffering of end-stage renal failure patients in Malaysia: a thematic analysis

Abstract

Background: The population of end-stage renal failure (ESRF) receiving dialysis treatment is increasing worldwide. For most patients with ESRF, dialysis can extend their life. However, treatment can be demanding and time-consuming. Despite dialysis treatment, many patients continue to experience various sufferings.

Methods: A qualitative study was conducted with semi-structured interviews to explore the experiences of suffering of ESRF patients on maintenance dialysis in Malaysia. The results were thematically analyzed.

Results: Nineteen ESRF patients were interviewed. The themes and subthemes were: (I) physical suffering-physical symptoms and functional limitations, (II) psychological suffering-the emotions and thoughts of suffering, (III) social suffering-healthcare-related suffering and burdening of others and (IV) spiritual suffering-the queries of suffering.

Conclusions: These findings may help healthcare professionals to fill in the gaps in the delivery of best renal palliative care.

Keywords: Malaysia; Suffering; dialysis; palliative care; renal failure.