Family’s dynamicsfacing the peritoneal dialysis at home

Abstract

Aim: this study aims to describe the dynamics of a family facing the needof one of its members performing peritoneal dialysis at home. Method: qualitative study conducted in a kidney clinic in Southern Brazil, from March to May 2012. Seven families were interviewed in their residences. The data was submitted to thematic analysis. Results: the investigation of the families’dynamics points to the participation from the initial process of the treatment, being permeated by the help of its members, the alliances and unions inside the families, but also the helplessness and difficulties, changes in emotional and social order and the dependenceof the sick family member. Final Thoughts: by understanding the families’ dynamicsacross the peritoneal dialysis at home, nurses can be helped to identify the strengths and weaknesses of each family, allowing strategies to be implemented to improve the care, in particular, the real needs of patients and their families