Experiences of Nephrology Nurses in Assessing and Managing Pain in Patients Receiving Maintenance Hemodialysis.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major health problem. The purpose of this qualitative study was to describe nephrology nurses' experiences in assessing and managing pain in patients who were receiving maintenance hemodialysis at outpatient units within a tertiary care institution. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven nurses, and a thematic analysis was used to analyze data. Themes emerged related to the complexity of pain assessment and management in these patients, who were often elderly. Nurses had to ascertain whether the pain was related to hemodialysis treatment, renal failure, or comorbidities. Nurses described managing pain within the context of the hemodialysis unit, and this required working as a team. Nurses also described the need for a palliative approach in patient care.

The pain experience of patients on maintenance hemodialysis.

This article describes the pain experience of patients on maintenance hemodialysis. Nephrology nurses have noted that patients on maintenance hemodialysis experience pain; however, it may not be adequately assessed or treated. A qualitative approach was utilized. Data were analyzed using content analysis. Twenty-five patients on outpatient hemodialysis were interviewed during their scheduled hemodialysis treatments. Patient pain experiences were related to physical pain, such as joint pain, as well as discomfort from being immobile. There were also descriptions of emotional and social pain. Patients utilized analgesics and other approaches, such as exercise, for pain. Patients also described pain management within the context of a dialysis unit. Patients'pain experiences require additional assessment and intervention. Further research is warranted to identify strategies to facilitate comfort.