Expressions of Gratitude and Positive Emotion among Hemodialysis Patients: Qualitative Findings.

Abstract

Objectives: The current qualitative inquiry solicited hemodialysis (HD) patients to identify events or incidences that have gone well in their day-to-day life, things they consider to be blessings, and to further reflect on the contributors of such events.

Methods: Hemodialysis patients kept an electronic journal using investigator-purchased tablet computers.

Results: Multiple themes emerged for which HD patients expressed gratitude: 1) life itself, 2) positive or improving health 3) family interactions and social support, 4) clinic resources, favorable treatment therapy, and staff, and 5) other small events.

Conclusions: Clinicians are urged to explore the psychological assets that HD patients possess with a focus on how these might be further cultivated and whether their amplification leads to improved quality of life.