Aim: In this study, we investigated the effects of catheter application sites on patients’ quality of life and comfort.
Material and Methods: Between June 2005 - September 2006, 171 patients (104 male, 67 female, mean age 56,3 ±14,8) who had hemodialysis access through a catheter (temporary or tunneled) were investigated prospectively in our clinic. Patients’ quality of life was evaluated with Visual Analogue Scale (0 – 10 cm) including scales about catheter related pain, mobility impairment, esthetic anxiety, discomfort in urination, sleeping and bathing.
Results: Right internal jugular vein is the most preferred catheter site in our clinic. And it is the most common catheter site that patients have complaints. Also this is supported with the highest Visual Analogue Scale scores about this anatomical site. According to the Visual Analogue Scale scores, pain and discomfort during shower are the most common complaints. And discomfort at shower is the most common complaint with all of the catheter sites and has the highest Visual Analogue Scale scores.
Conclusions: Subclavian vein hemodialysis access may not be the first choice because of the high rates of related complications like vein thrombosis, but we observed that it is the most comfortable and pleasing method for chronic hemodialysis patients in our study. We think that more research should be conducted about the methods and instruments to prevent the catheter complications and improve patient comfort.
Key Words: Hemodialysis; Central Venous Catheters; Patient Satisfaction; Visual Analogue Scale.
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