| Theme | Maintenance Dialysis Patients -- Their Fluctnating Minds with Special References to “Depression” | |
|---|---|---|
| Title | Providing psychological support for hemodialysis patients | |
| Publish Date | 2008/09 | |
| Author | Hiroshi Kasahara | Department of 2nd Internal Medicine, Suwa Red Cross Hospital |
| [ Summary ] | Our attitude toward hemodialysis patients with psychological problems is described. When considering psychological problems, underlying conditions such as brain disorders, metabolic disorders, insufficient hemodialysis therapy and drug side effects, must be kept in mind. Hemodialysis patients' problems need to be classified into physical, brain or mental categories. We also must consider whether hemodialysis patients have diabetic nephropathy or conditions associated with old age. Mild disturbances in consciousness should be dismissed. However, delirium, depression, insomnia, and other psychiatric disorders must be paid attention to. Lastly, we must collaborate not only with psychiatrists but also hemodialysis patients in order to treat their psychological problems. |
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