Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a complex condition that requires ongoing management and treatment, which can significantly affect the quality of life for patients. The aim of the study explored the lived experience of the burden of CKD among patients receiving treatment in Naval Hospitals Lagos Nigeria using a phenomenological research design. A total of 12 participants were selected using a purposive sampling technique. Data was collected with an unstructured one-on-one interview using open-ended questions lasting for about 30 minutes on each participant. The researcher ensured reliability of the data by adhering to the rigors of a qualitative research. Structural analysis and in-depth interpretation of meaning to understand the lived experiences of the participant was done to generate themes using Colaizziphenomenological method of data analysis. From the interview, five themes emerged which reflected on lived experiences of patients living with CKD. The findings from this study indicated that financial constraints, restricted life, psychological influence was evident where there were many shared experiences. Inaccessibility to social support service was a major challenge and an extra expense. It also identified building inner strength, family, and spiritual support and prayers as integral components of coping strategies. It is therefore recommended that, routine social and psychological support services and interventions should be incorporated into the care of CKD patients by providing access to counseling services, support groups, and mental health support.
Keywords: Coping Strategies, chronic kidney disease, dialysis, lived experiences
