Home dialysis, a complicated relational dynamics for couples

Abstract

Home dialysis is recognized as the least expensive technique. Yet it is the least chosen in France. Why is France being cautious about the choice of this technique? In this article, we focus on the psychological aspects of spousal management of home hemodialysis patients. In this regard, the studies are contradictory, some report a discomfort in couples, while others highlight a better quality of life for both partners. After criticizing the methodology used in some of the works that remove the subjective and some qualitative clinical elements that are essential to understanding the phenomenon, we hypothesized that three nested levels deserve to be taken into account, up to to be decisive in the choice of dialysis: the psychological dynamics of each partner, the dynamics of the couple and the psychological investment of the home. We conclude on the idea that the integration of the spouse in the care of the patient can be an asset for the continuation of treatment, subject to certain conditions: first, an assessment of the psychic dynamics of the couple to limit the therapeutic failures and psychological suffering; secondly, raising the awareness of doctors and caregivers about these issues, because the couple can develop a relationship which is all the more pathological as the treatment is done in camera; finally, the opening of a space of speech so that couples can express their difficulties and be reassured.