Finding a balance: a grounded theory study of spirituality in hemodialysis patients

The purpose of this study was to discover what spirituality means to hemodialysis patients and how it influences their lives. Grounded theory qualitative research method was used to discover meaning, provide understanding, and create a beginning substantive theory of spirituality. Four men and 7 women, 36 to 78 years of age, receiving outpatient hemodialysis in the northwestern United States, volunteered to participate in this study. Demographic data were collected and indepth interviews were completed. The Glaserian method of grounded theory was used for data collection and analysis. The central core category of this study was finding a balance, which occurred in the following four phases: (a) confronting mortality, (b) reframing, (c) adjusting to dialysis, and (d) facing the challenge. Categories of spirituality were faith, presence, and receiving and giving back. Participants described spirituality as a life-giving force from within, full of awe, wonder, and solitude, that inspires one to strive for balance in life. Participants validated the description of spirituality, categories, and phases to assure that it captured their person experiences. A focus group of hemodialysis staff validated the results for clarity, understanding, and application to clinical practice. The results of this study provide a theoretical framework to guide nursing practice as well as an understanding of what spirituality means to hemodialysis patients and how it influences their lives.