Identification of health problems of patients undergoing hemodialysis using self care deficit theory and application of nursing process approach care

Effective nursing care requires identification of the needs of the patient and planning nursing care according to patient's needs. In the Indian context it is very much necessary to study the nursing care needs of patients undergoing hemodialysis even though enough literatures on nursing care protocol based on the nursing care needs of patients are available in countries like U.S.A. Interview carried out among 50 patients on their health problems while undergoing Hemodialysis were ranked so that priority care can be provided. Following the priority problems, a nursing process approach was developed, which has been used by nurses working in the dialysis unit while taking care of the clients. The study found that the nursing process approach was very effective and proved rational care of patients undergoing Hemodialysis as it could prevent the complications.