Qualitative study on palliative care needs of peritoneal dialysis patients and caregivers

Objective To gain a deeper understanding of the palliative care needs of peritoneal dialysis patients and caregivers and to provide scientific basis for the targeted implementation of palliative care intervention programs. Methods A semi-structured in-depth interview was conducted on 14 patients and 6 caregivers at a peritoneal dialysis center in a third-class hospital in Beijing. We used the Colaizzi seven-step data analysis method and the phenomenological method of qualitative research to analyze the data and refine the theme. Results Through the analysis, 5 theme groups were summarized, including the need to alleviate physiological and psychological symptoms, the need for family support and help, the need for social help, the lack of understanding of palliative care, and the lack of scientific view of death. Conclusion Peritoneal dialysis patients and caregivers have a strong need for palliative care. Medical staff should fully respect the uniqueness of peritoneal dialysis patients and implement targeted palliative care interventions based on their needs and preferences, so as to effectively improve their quality of life.