QUALITY-OF-LIFE EXPERIENCES FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF PATIENTS RECEIVING HAEMODIALYSIS FOR CHRONIC RENAL FAILURE

This study describes the experiences of patients receiving haemodialysis for chronic renal failure at the only dialysis centre in Windhoek, Namibia. A qualitative, explorative and descriptive design was used. Data were collected by means of in-depth interviews and analysed using Tesch's process. Four themes emerged from the data, relating to (1) financial constraints, (2) loss of independence and spontaneous activities, (3) strain on relationships and (4) feelings of significant physiological changes and weakness. Based on the results, recommendations were submitted for psychosocial support and the establishment of support groups.