life. Consequently, a significant aspect of treatment with haemodialysis is the need to conform to the monotony of dialysis regimens. In addition to dialysis, the patient must conform to rigid dietary and fluid restrictions to control symptoms. Multiple medications are needed to subsidise the shortfalls of dialysis and to treat several of the side effects of kidney failure. The relationships and family roles of the patient are often challenged resulting in social and psychological responses for these patients. These dilemmas have been identified as some of the many stressors of people requiring haemodialysis who attend HHUs [1-4].
The nurse, as the primary carer in the HHU, is the best-placed health care professional to offer support to patients suffering or feeling discomfort due to their treatment.