Lived Experiences of Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease Receiving In-Center Hemodialysis at a Tertiary Hospital in Laguna, Philippines

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a challenging and prevalent problem that affects around 120 Filipinos per million people annually, with 5,000 on dialysis and 1.1 million on kidney replacement therapy. However, only a few researchers have explored the perspectives of these individuals' experiences; hence, this study was intended to fill that knowledge gap. This study aims to provide a guideline for nurses in providing a holistic approach to chronic kidney disease patients by analyzing their lived experiences. Researchers utilized a qualitative research design and hermeneutic-phenomenological method. The data were gathered using an interview questionnaire adapted from the study of Wasihun et al. (2021), with twelve participants interviewed in a Tertiary Hospital in Laguna, Philippines. The transcripts were thematically analyzed and yielded five (5) key themes, including the severity of the disease, physico-psycho emotional effects of having CKD, coping with HD treatment, socio-economic impacts of HD treatment, and healthcare provision. CKD patients face diverse physical, psychological, emotional, and financial challenges. Despite these impediments, they were able to comply with treatment and manage their problems. Healthcare providers should holistically address patients' needs for healthier lives. Keywords: Chronic kidney disease, CKD, Hemodialysis, HD, Lived-Experiences, Severity of the Disease, Physico-psycho Emotional Effects of Having CKD, Coping with HD Treatment. Socio-Economic Impacts of the HD Treatment, and Health Care Provision DOI: 10.7176/JHMN/110-05 Publication date: October 31 st 2023