| [ Summary ] |
The mental health problems of those patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis have become increasingly important in recent years. Those patients have the task of reconstructing attitudes in line with their own sense of values in new life styles, including hemodialysis. In accomplishing this task, there are various psychological problems, including family related issues. In relation to dealing with family related problems, we must fully understand the changes in patients' social roles and their position in their families. Through this understanding, collaborative doctor patient relationships may be founded. In addition, psychological therapy and care for patients' family members are often necessary. The characteristics of "terminal stage dialysis therapy" are different from those of ordinary maintenance dialysis in various aspects. Thus, it is essential to examine the psychology of the terminal stage hemodialysis patients and their family members, and to evaluate the effectiveness of psychological therapy to care for these patients. |