OBJECTIVE: To identify the sensorial perceptions of the patients towards the arteriovenous fistula and describe them from their social-communicating senses. METHODS: Creative techniques were performed during hemodialysis session with five patients. Participants were asked to draw something that represented having an arteriovenous fistula. After drawing, six pictures were displayed, each with a body sense, and patients were questioned about the feelings toward arteriovenous fistula for each of the senses. Their statements were recorded on magnetic tape. RESULTS: The creative techniques allowed for identifying feelings like sadness, bitterness, and dependence, caused by having an arteriovenous fistula and the approaches in social life. CONCLUSION: When valuing the patient's senses whilst living with an arteriovenous fistula, the nurse re-estimates the care that is delivered.
Renal dialysis; Hemodialysis units, hospital; Perception; Arteriovenous fistula