EXPLORING THE LIVED EXPERIENCES OF NURSES IN HEMODIALYSIS CARE

Hemodialysis nursing is a specialized and emotionally demanding field that requires not only technical expertise but also compassionate, holistic care for patients with end-stage renal disease. The study aimed to explore and understand the lived experiences of nurses working in hemodialysis units in Roxas, Isabela, Philippines. The study utilized descriptive qualitative research design, an in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted in 15 registered nurses currently employed in selected hemodialysis centers. Thematic analysis was used to identify recurring themes from the narratives. The findings revealed seven (7) emerging themes in terms of the lived experiences of hemodialysis nurses such as complex demands of hemodialysis nursing, technical expertise, resiliency, routines, patient-centered care, sense of purpose, and deep nurse-patient relationship. As regards the positive experiences of hemodialysis nurses, four (4) themes emerged such as moments of personal and professional fulfillment, emotional bonding, resilience in action, and daily gratitude as emotional reward. Themes such as struggles with skills gap and clinical competence, managing difficult and rude patients, and emotional impact of patient death and loss were the negative experiences of hemodialysis nurses. Moreover, challenges such as unpredictable and life-threatening effects of dialysis, shortage of staff, suppressed personal stress, technical and operational challenges were found. In addition, deepened understanding of holistic and compassionate care, admiration for patients, and heightened appreciation for personal health and preventive care were ways that changed the nurses’ perception of patient care. Lastly, they perceived that peer connection and workplace camaraderie, emotional reliance, and personal coping rituals and self-care practices were the coping mechanisms that help them deal with the stresses and demands of hemodialysis. The study highlighted the critical need for holistic support systems, continuous training, and policy development that acknowledge the unique challenges faced by hemodialysis nurses.