Learning Objective #1: List the available renal replacement therapies

Learning Objective #2: State the three themes in the findings of this study

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Purpose: Nursing research literature provides many studies and reviews regarding renal replacement therapies for patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD). The perception of choice of hemodialysis (HD) or peritoneal dialysis or transplantation, for the patient undergoing HD as renal replacement therapy, has received little research and therefore remains illusive. The purpose of this study was to gather data through the use of interviews to explore and explain HD patients' perceptions of their choice among renal replacement therapies. Rationale: Research highlights inconsistencies in how options of renal replacement therapies are presented. The most significant issue was the lack of research focusing on HD patients' choice. Literature suggests concern of whether HD patients are making fully informed choices. This study is significant because it begins the study of perception of the patient that may affect when and how HD patients are provided treatment options and how they choose a treatment. Methods: This exploratory, descriptive study used a phenomenological method. A convenient sample was recruited from two urban dialysis units in Louisiana. Saturation was achieved during the 12th interview and the final sample number was 12 participants. Data collection consisted of audio-taped interviews which were transcribed verbatim. The analysis was performed using Colaizzi's phenomenological technique. Findings: Three themes emerged from analysis: 1) knowledge, 2) choice, and 3) psychosocial support. Participants perceived choice in their renal replacement therapies. The predominant theme reflected that most HD participants had knowledge about at least two of the three types of renal replacement therapies. Psychosocial support was also perceived as important by these patients. Implications: The areas of choice among renal replacement therapies, education about all renal replacement therapies, and other dynamics that impact their choice, need to be studied. Inquiry needs to remain treatment specific and include all renal replacement treatments available to the patient.