Reasons Renal Patients Give for Deciding Not to Dialyze: A Prospective Qualitative Interview Study

摘要: BACKGROUND As the population ages, sicker patients often with multiple comorbidities are presenting in renal clinics. Some deciding not to embark on dialysis. The objective of this study was gain an understanding decision that some make dialysis. METHODS Naturally occurring qualitative interviews were conducted 30 and 17 caregivers managed within a Renal Supportive Care Service acute NHS Trust London. RESULTS Several believed they had made informed autonomous decision, either or against advice their doctor (n 5 17); felt no option but refuse dialysis treatment, as it would have been benefit might ultimately cause death 7); stated decided opt for medication rather than 3 times week seemed believe lead same outcome 2), there be 4). CONCLUSIONS Prior study, little known about those who decide how decision. It cannot presumed decisions by fully understood free from inappropriate professional family influence, needs regularly revisited check patients' caregivers' allow reversal if fitting. There is need understand service providers can help ensure such supported best available supportive care thereafter.