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| Author | Patrick Pace |
| Abstract | Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD) is an effective, relatively simple method of self-care dialysis, which appears widely applicable in the treatment of end stage renal disease (ESRD) (Whittaker, 1984). Dialysis is the process of removing waste products and excess water from the body for individuals with little or no renal function (Piira et al, 2002). The aim of this study is to explore the female spouses' adaptation to Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD) of their husband. This small-scale qualitative study used a semi-structured face-to-face interview, based on a random sample of 11 female spouses who were interviewed at the local general hospital. The audio-taped interviews underwent thematic analysis. The findings were classified mainly under 3 themes oriented towards the problems encountered by female spouses, their adaptation to their husbands' CAPD and their adaptation by Coping Methods. In this study, various factors which enhanced and inhibited female spouses' adaptation to CAPD were identified. Fatigue, impaired relationship between the patient and his family, difficulty in communication and dependency were the major inhibiting factors. On the other hand, support from staff, children, and the use of spiritual adaptation were the most adaptive modes used to adapt to their husband's CAPD. A set of recommendations were made for clinical practice and education. Further research was suggested to explore the spouses' adaptation to CAPD. |
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| Key words | Spouse, Adaptation, Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis, CAPD, Thesis, Nursing |