The impact of home dialysis on the family: literature review.

This critique of 48 research and anecdotal reports published since 1967 summarizes current understanding about the effects on family members assisting with home dialysis. Psychological perspectives have provided descriptions of how these family assistants cope with the stresses associated with dialysis. However, important societal, gender, and economic factors affecting people with end stage renal disease (ESRD) and their families have been overlooked. More comprehensive perspectives would illuminate the range of effects home dialysis has on "the family"--especially female assistants.