The pain experience of patients on maintenance hemodialysis.

This article describes the pain experience of patients on maintenance hemodialysis. Nephrology nurses have noted that patients on maintenance hemodialysis experience pain; however, it may not be adequately assessed or treated. A qualitative approach was utilized. Data were analyzed using content analysis. Twenty-five patients on outpatient hemodialysis were interviewed during their scheduled hemodialysis treatments. Patient pain experiences were related to physical pain, such as joint pain, as well as discomfort from being immobile. There were also descriptions of emotional and social pain. Patients utilized analgesics and other approaches, such as exercise, for pain. Patients also described pain management within the context of a dialysis unit. Patients'pain experiences require additional assessment and intervention. Further research is warranted to identify strategies to facilitate comfort.