This qualitative research was developed in the renal outpatient clinic of a public hospital in the south of Brazil. The objective of the study was to describe how patients in conservative treatment of chronic renal insufficiency care for themselves. Fifteen patients in conservative treatment of chronic renal insufficiency participated in the research. A narrative interview was used for the collection of data. The following themes were identified: lifestyle, continuity, changes and adaptations; the use of drugs in self-care; outpatient monitoring in conservative treatment; and physical activity and leisure in self-care. It was concluded that the self-care of patients in conservative treatment is expressed through attitudes that range from denial to acceptance of the chronic condition. It is necessary to think about health promotion more amply, seeking quality of life for patients in conservative treatment of chronic renal insufficiency for self-care.
Chronic renal insufficiency; Nursing; Activities of daily living; Chronic disease; Life change events