| Theme |
Maintenance Dialysis Patients -- Their Fluctnating Minds with Special References to “Depression” |
| Title |
Understanding dialysis palients and providing nursing care support |
| Author |
Miyuki Anzai |
Department of Nursing, Yokosuka Clinic |
| [ Summary ] |
Depression is the most common mental symptom seen in dialysis patients. Reactive depression is caused by various circumstances such as the experience of loss and conflict. Because these patients' chief complaints tend to be related to physical disturbances, careful observation must be performed to discover a depression early on.
Pessimistic thinking and negative behavior are important signs which must not be overlooked. Every aspect of patients' behavior must be paid attention to in order to establish trust. After trust is established many patients will be less depressed. When care givers feel that depression is serious, they should not hesitate to consult a psychologist. |