A Qualitative Exploration on Understanding Progression Patterns and Nursing Implications of Chronic Kidney Disease

Introduction : Despite the alarming increase in the prevalence of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) worldwide owing to high-risk factors, little information is available on patients who experience consistent CKD progression. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the diverse courses of chronic kidney disease and understand illness perspectives from patients, fostering customized nursing approaches. Methods : This qualitative study employed purposive and snowball sampling techniques to recruit 15 patients with CKD (stages 1 and 2) from the outpatient department of King Khalid Hospital. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews that lasted between 45 and 60 minutes, each with the participants’ consent for audio recording. Data were collected between March and April 2024. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze the transcriptions of the interviews. Results: Four themes, including five subthemes, emerged from the verbatim accounts obtained from all 15 participants involved in this research. These are: (1) slow creep (The Range of Experiences in Early Stage CKD), (2) Balancing Act of Hope and Uncertainty (navigating a new reality), (3) turning point (contributory factors), and (4) CKD progression patterns (challenges managing CKD; Hopes, Fears, and Living with Uncertainty). Conclusion : “slow creep,” which includes various experiences during initial diagnosis; “Balancing Act of Hope and Uncertainty” where emotional contradictions were raised, “Turning point marking an essential period in the progression of the illness; and lastly, “CKD Progression Patterns” which shows how difficult it is for someone to manage uncertainty through one’s emotions. This understanding offers a framework for understanding early stage CKD, but more studies need to be conducted before any conclusive statements can be made about them.