Complementary Therapy for Fatigue Management in a Patient Undergoing Hemodialysis: A Case Study

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease is a chronic condition that requires renal replacement therapy in the form of routine hemodialysis to maintain body function. Patients undergoing hemodialysis often experience various physical and psychological complaints, one of which is fatigue, which can affect daily activities and patients’ quality of life. One of the non-pharmacological interventions that can be used to reduce fatigue is a relaxation technique combining slow deep breathing and lavender aromatherapy, which may provide relaxation effects and improve patient comfort. The purpose of this final nursing scientific paper was to implement nursing care for a patient with chronic kidney disease undergoing hemodialysis therapy who experienced fatigue through a combined relaxation technique of slow deep breathing and  lavender aromatherapy in the Hemodialysis Unit of Mayjen H. A. Thalib Regional General Hospital, Sungai Penuh City. The method used was a case study with a nursing process approach, including assessment, nursing diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation in patient Mrs. A. The intervention was administered for three consecutive days. The results showed a decrease in the fatigue score from 6.2 before the intervention to 3.8 after the intervention. The conclusion indicates that the combined relaxation technique of slow deep breathing and lavender aromatherapy can help reduce fatigue levels in hemodialysis patients. It is recommended that patients and their families independently apply this relaxation technique to help reduce fatigue during hemodialysis therapy.