Physical and psychosocial adaptation of blacks on hemodialysis

Roy's Adaptation Model was used to study problems and coping strategies reported by 102 blacks on hemodialysis. Although the most frequently identified problems were fatigue, muscle soreness, and physical limitations, food and fluid restrictions were most bothersome. Participants used multiple strategies to cope with the illness and its treatment. Putting trust in God was the most frequently identified strategy. These findings can be used to enhance the physical and psychosocial assessment of these patients and facilitate the ability of clinicians to intervene effectively in helping clients cope with the problems that are associated with the illness and its treatment.