Lived experiences of patients with end-stage kidney disease undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis in the community

Abstract

This interpretive phenomenological study aimed to explore and gain an in-depth understanding of the lived experiences of patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) at home in community settings in Phayao Province, Thailand. Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews and observation. Fifteen participants were purposively selected, and data collection continued until data saturation was achieved. Demographic data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were analyzed using an interpretive phenomenological approach through the identification and clustering of meaning units and the synthesis of essential themes.

The findings revealed five major themes: 1) loss of self-reliance and increased dependence on family members; 2) economic hardships and limitations of the home environment; 3) inequities in access to medical supplies and transportation systems within the community; 4) risk-taking coping behaviors under lifestyle constraints; and 5) spiritual suffering resulting from the loss of social roles. The findings indicate that socioeconomic factors constitute significant barriers to effective self-care, limiting patients’ ability to manage their health and maintain a satisfactory quality of life.