Abstract
An identified gap in the literature exists regarding studies using an inductive approach that allow caregivers to describe the lived experience of caring for family members dependent upon hemodialysis for managing end stage kidney disease. This study used a purposive sample of six caregiver participants, male and female, with an average age of 36 using a descriptive, phenomenological approach designed to share experiences of providing care to a family member dependent on hemodialysis. The representative sample was recruited from a mid-sized hospital in the mid-Atlantic region of the United States. The investigator conducted face-to-face, semistructured interviews with participants. Using the Giorgi method of data analysis, six major themes and 12 sub-themes were identified. Perceptions of the caregiver participants were that caregiving is hard work and stressful; however, caregivers found the experience meaningful. Caregivers identified they need a support system and the stress of caregiving interferes with their own health. Uncertainty regarding the indeterminate time a family member will use hemodialysis added stress to caregivers. Study limitations included a sample with one male participant, which may limit understanding of the male caregiver perspective and included participants who only spoke English. Study results should interest caregivers and healthcare professionals working with caregivers of family members dependent on hemodialysis. Further research should include the effects of exercise, spirituality, and the cultural differences for caregivers providing care for family members dependent upon hemodialysis. A longitudinal study examining long-term effects of caregiving with this population is warranted.
Sigma Membership
Gamma Omega
Type
Dissertation
Format Type
Text-based Document
Study Design/Type
Phenomenology
Research Approach
Qualitative Research
Keywords:
Caregiving, Family Caregivers, Kidney Disease, Hemodialysis
Advisor
Patricia Finch-Guthrie
Second Advisor
Anne Brett
Third Advisor
Susan Orshan
Degree
PhD
Degree Grantor
University of Phoenix
Degree Year
2015
Recommended Citation
Turner, Christine Kearney, "The lived experience of being a caregiver for a family member dependent upon hemodialysis" (2022). Dissertations. 563.
https://www.sigmarepository.org/dissertations/563
Rights Holder
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Review Type
None: Degree-based Submission
Acquisition
Proxy-submission
Date of Issue
2022-04-20
Full Text of Presentation
wf_yes
Description
This dissertation has also been disseminated through the ProQuest Dissertations and Theses database. Dissertation/thesis number: 3736214; ProQuest document ID: 1749012039. The author still retains copyright.