Objetivo

To describe and compare the perception of nursing caring behavior in adults treated with renal therapy for peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis in a renal unit in Bogotá.

Material and Method

Descriptive and comparative study with a sample of 92 patients receiving real therapy distributed in two groups: hemodialysis (n=52) and peritoneal dialysis (n=42). The Professional Performance for Caring Scale of Horner was used. Descriptive statistics were used for the analysis, central tendency and dispersion measures; as well as inferential statistics by non-parametric tests for comparison between the groups.

Results

High scores on the caring behavior offered by nursery services were observed for the two groups of patients. Both groups perceive the interactions between different factors such as family- patient relationships, courtesy, relationship and commitment in the care offered by nursing services. The perception of the group of patients treated with peritoneal dialysis was slightly greater, but statistically significant differences between the groups were not observed.

Conclusions

Patients treated with renal therapy for peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis acknowledge high levels of care in the nursing services provided. It is necessary to maintain the technical and theoretical components common to renal unities, as well as strengthen the relationships based on trust, respect and empathy that the nurse can offer according to his/her conditions as well as those provided by the institution.