Table 1 An example of the process of developing items in the uncertainty about disease and treatment in patients undergoing hemodialysis
Participant experiences and opinions | Code | Item | Structure |
|---|---|---|---|
"Physicians have been saying from the very beginning that this disease is not curable, but manageable. The better you manage it, the longer you will live; but I see people who follow all the recommendations and still don't live long. I don't know if the things they tell us to eat or not eat will actually extend our lifespan or not?" | Uncertainty about living longer with adherence to treatment | I am not certain whether adhering to treatment will result in a longer lifespan | Uncertainty about treatment outcomes |
"I doubt that I can find a job in the future. I don't know if my family will support me or not?" | Social damages caused by undergoing hemodialysis | I am not certain about having a favorable social or family status in the future due to my disease or hemodialysis. | Uncertain situation |
"They told me once that my fistula was damaged, while I had followed all the care principles very carefully. I don't really know what to say. I thought to myself that maybe I don't have enough information about fistula care." | Uncertainty about information regarding vascular access care | I am not certain about my information regarding my vascular access. | Information uncertainty |
"On the days that I undergo hemodialysis, I don't feel like doing any of my usual activities. The next one or two days, I feel a little better. I don't know if I will be able to do my activities in the future or not?" | Uncertainty about performing personal tasks due to hemodialysis | I am not certain about my ability to perform my daily activities considering the type of treatment I am receiving for my disease | Self-uncertainty |
"Sometimes in the ward, I see patients who are feeling unwell and suffering a lot. I don't know what to do if I become involved in such a situation in a few weeks. Who should I ask for help?" | Uncertainty about the problems caused by treatment | Whenever an issue arises regarding my treatment, I find it difficult to make a decision about it easily. | Uncertain future |