Living With the Two Devils: Experiences of Haemodialysis Patients Who Survived COVID-19 Infection in Ghana

CKD and COVID-19 have numerous effects on public health outcomes of individuals affected and health systems. However, their combined effect in low-resourced settings has not been adequately explored. We explored the lived experiences of haemodialysis patients who survived COVID-19 in Ghana.

This study, conducted in Accra, Ghana, was a cross-sectional, prospective qualitative design guided and reported according to the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative studies (COREQ). We purposively selected 12 haemodialysis patients who survived COVID-19 infection.

We identified three key themes. The lived experiences centred on limitation or restriction to important activities, emotional/psychological distress and uncertainty about important aspects of their lives. Most of the respondents experienced heightened restrictions and limitations to their physical movement, social interactions and access to their finances. Additionally, participants reported increased emotional and psychological distress exacerbated by living with the two life-threatening conditions. Finally, participants experienced increased uncertainty towards their treatment, fear of death, anger, loneliness and insecurity.

Identified negative experiences should be used to develop coping strategies and support systems to reduce emotional and psychological distress as well as improve social interaction and quality of life of such patients.