The use of playfulness during hemodialysis treatment: experiences of nursing students

Abstract

Objective: To report the perception of nursing students of an extension project regarding the use of playfulness during the treatment of hemodialysis patients. Experience report: The Atletas da Alegria extension project: playful activities to smile started in 2015, with the aim of providing moments of joy, relaxation and leisure, governed by playful activities. It was observed that during the playful actions carried out by the project, the patients have the perception that the time of the hemodialysis session is reduced, and that during the playful presentations, the patients feel joyful, enthusiastic and emotional, these feelings are demonstrated through the laughter and interaction with project members, and it was also noticed that during project presentations patients feel more confident in socializing and expressing their feelings and opinions. Final considerations: It was possible to notice a high number of patients undergoing hemodialysis, but a lack of distracting activities and / or leisure during the same. If the playful activities are well planned, they will certainly contribute to the feeling of minimizing the time of the treatment session, but, mainly, they will promote the patient's emotional well-being.