Peritoneal dialysis indication:: importance of psychosocial aspects

Peritoneal dialysis treatment is as efficient as hemodialysis if properly administered; therefore psychological aspects of peritoneal dialysis must be taken into account if this is to be the best treatment for patients suffering from terminal renal disease. This paper presents these aspects from the view of logotherapy and existential analysis. The description of the change in viewing patients from a medical aspect is followed by an outline of basic logotherapy and existential analysis. The consequences to patients and their current problems are described, together with theoretical basics and practical guidelines for communication with patients.