Experiences of Hmong patients on hemodialysis and the nurses working with them
Author(s):
Krueger, Linda
Format:
Journal article
Citation:
Nephrology Nursing Journal: Journal Of The American Nephrology Nurses' Association, Volume 36, Issue 4 (2009-08). pp. 379-387.
Language:
English
Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of Hmong patients on hemodialysis and the nurses working with them. Two midwestern Wisconsin hospitals with hemodialysis units were used as data collection sites. All registered nurses working in the hemodialysis units with Hmong patients were invited to participate. All of the Hmong patients on hemodialysis were also invited to participate. Cooperation and assistance was obtained by the Hmong community. The results indicated that nurses use a variety of methods to learn about Hmong culture on their own, but overall, they felt there was a lack of training for them on Hmong culture. They felt the Hmong patients on hemodialysis were less compliant with their medication regimen and dietary/fluid restriction but equally compliant with their hemodialysis treatment schedule compared to non-Hmong patients on hemodialysis. The nurses identified several barriers present among Hmong patients: transportation, finances, family support, depression, and anxiety. Cultural challenges identified in working with Hmong patients on hemodialysis included communication, Hmong beliefs about treatment, beliefs about illness, and fears about treatment. Hmong patients on hemodialysis described experiencing profound sadness, weakness, and uncertainty. They were sad that they had this chronic disease, that so much of their time was spent in dialysis, and that their lives were drastically changed. They described feeling fatigued and unable to participate in family, social, and clan activities. This also contributed to their sadness. Feelings of uncertainty and fear related to life, death, dialysis, the future, and kidney transplant were identified.