The following study aimed to better understand the labor dynamics of a hemodialysis service in the interior of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, as well as nursing worker perceptions on hemodialysis patients. It is a qualitative study in which data was collected through a semi-structured interview applied to twelve nursing workers from March to April of 2009. Thematic analysis was applied to determine that nursing work in hemodialysis service has a resolute, complex, and routine dynamic. These workers affirm that patients have difficulty in accepting the sickness due to the dependency of the treatment, have troubled social and familiar relationships because of the sickness, and search for such references of affection in the nursing team. This study highlights the complexity of affectionate relationships between nursing workers and hemodialysis patients as well as the need for future investigation into hemodialysis services.
Nursing; Renal dialysis; Worker's health