Interpreting Transition from Adolescence to Adulthood in Patients on Dialysis Who Have ESRD
Hemodialysis.com Author Interview: Jonathan Cura RN, MSN |
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Hemodialysis.com: What are the main findings of the study? |
Transition to Adulthood among patients with ESRD is like a pendulum continuously moving in a back and forth motion; they are in a constant search of self within two ends of characteristics: of holding on and giving up; expression and non-expression of self. |
Hemodialysis.com: Were any of the findings unexpected? |
In terms of expressing autonomy, autonomy is present when they felt that they had control over the things that happened to them; this is by expressing themselves to others, such as whenever they were able to state their opinions and decisions. Yet ironically ,autonomy is also achieved when they keep things to themselves, such as when they want themselves to be alone, and hide their emotions. |
Hemodialysis.com: Were any of the findings unexpected? |
Patients with ESRD have chronic illness and also experience transitional stage from adolescence to adulthood. Expression of autonomy among these patients is deemed to be important. Promotion of autonomy can be achieved by respecting the patient’s opinions and guiding them in making decisions for their health care. Also, patients on their transitional stage are still looking forward a health care setting with an atmosphere that promotes friendly attitude and patient motivation. |
Hemodialysis.com: What recommendations do you have for future research as a result of this study? |
This study did not exclude ESRD patients who started hemodialysis only during their transitional age (17 to 22 years old). I would recommend future studies to consider ESRD patients who started hemodialysis before their transitional stage (17 to 22 y/o) so as to understand better how the chronic illness affect the individuals who had it earlier than their transitional stage. |
Reference: J Ren Care. 2012 May 24. doi: 10.1111/j.1755-6686.2012.00310.x. [Epub ahead of print] |