PSYCHOLOGY AND REHABILITATION IN DIALYSIS PATIENTS

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Appropriate Behavior of Family and Relatives

There is no single correct answer or solution to this issue. In line with observations and psychological support interviews in dialysis units, it is important to draw attention to the following points:

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1. Patients' Age at Dialysis Start:

The age at which patients start dialysis significantly affects patients' life expectations, goals and personality structures. A person who starts dialysis at a young age may exhibit different reactions and expectations than an individual who starts dialysis during retirement. For example, while a young patient may worry about school life and social relationships, a retired patient may think that getting used to their illness has become a job. However, this situation cannot be explained solely by the age factor; other factors also affect reactions.

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2. The Process Until Entering Dialysis:

The transition process to dialysis covers the stage where patients adapt to this new life order. While some patients may be prepared for this situation because they have lived with the possibility of starting dialysis for a long time, some patients may face a sudden transition and experience intense anxiety due to this situation. Especially a sudden transition can significantly affect the psychological state of the patients.

3. Family Structure of the Patients:

It is very important for the family and close circle of the patients to be sensitive to the spiritual needs of the patients. Family members should provide support in a time and amount appropriate to the needs of their patients. For example, while a patient prefers to be alone on a tired day, a relative who constantly talks next to him may not provide the appropriate support for the patient's spiritual needs. Proper spiritual support should be adjusted according to the individual needs of the patients. In addition, healthy family dynamics before the illness are also of great importance during the illness process.

4. Personality Structure of the Patients:

Personality traits play an important role in determining reactions and adaptation methods during the illness process. Existing or suppressed traits in the personality structure may become more apparent during the illness process. For example, this trait of a person known as nervous by his/her circle may become more apparent during the illness process. Family members and the treatment team need to be sensitive and harmonious in their approach to these diverse reactions.

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In summary, the most effective spiritual support that families can provide to patients should be provided in a timely and adequate manner, taking into account their individual needs and personality structures.

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Hemodialysis and Psychological Responses

Dialysis treatment aims to improve the quality of life of patients both physically and psychologically. The psychological problems that may be encountered in hemodialysis treatment can be summarized as follows:

Initial Treatment Process: At this stage, patients may experience intense difficulties regarding the "machine" and the treatment method. These difficulties may include extreme distress, irritability, rebellion and disappointment. Some patients may find themselves in feelings such as loneliness, guilt and anxiety.

Treatment Process: During the treatment process, difficulties in adapting to treatment may be experienced depending on their personality structure. These difficulties may include feelings of rebellion, refusal to comply with treatment, pessimism and a sense of social inadequacy. Patients may exhibit hostile attitudes towards the treatment team and may reject dietary restrictions.

The family and the treatment team must be in harmonious cooperation in order to understand, listen and support the patient. A sensitive approach should be taken to the patient's reactions and a correct and safe communication environment should be provided.

In conclusion, the patient should take an active role in the treatment process during hemodialysis treatment and pay attention to the following points:

Request information about treatment methods and dietary restrictions.

Share expectations and feelings in an open communication environment.

Realistically integrate hemodialysis into his/her life.

Determine his/her own social and personal goals and avoid excessive dependency.

Do not see hemodialysis as the sole source of all psychological and social problems.

Should meet with the treatment team in a safe environment when he/she cannot cope with the problems.

A secure exchange of information and continuous family-treatment team cooperation will provide positive psychological effects to the patient during the hemodialysis treatment process.