RESUMO
This study was conducted to investigate the relationship between self-esteem, health promoting behavior and the quality of life of the patients undergoing hemodialysis. The subjects were 86 patients undergoing hemodialysis in H hospital. The data were collected using a questionnaire. Data collection was done from January 11th to June 16th, 1999. The analysis of data was done by use of descriptive statistics, t-test, ANOVA, Pearson Correlation Coefficient and Multiple regression using the SPSS/PC+ program. The results are as follows:1.The mean of the level of self-esteem was 25.02, the level of health promoting behavior, 120.04 and the level of QOL, 128.09. 2. Test for hypothesis: Hypothesis 1. "The higher the level of self-esteem of the patients undergoing hemodialysis, the higher the level of quality of life will be." was supported(r=.296, p<.01). Hypothesis 2. "The higher the level of health promoting behavior, the higher the level of quality of life will be." was supported (r=.628, p<.001). 3.Health promoting behavior explained 39.5percent of QOL(R2=.395, F=27.040, p<.001). 4. Monthly income(F=3.85, p<.01) and marital status(F=4.64, p<.05) were significantly related to the quality of life In conclusion, this study showed that self-esteem and health promoting behavior may be important factors that can improve the quality of life of the patients undergoing hemodiaysis. This study identified that nursing plans should include these factors to help physical, psychological and social adaptation of the patients undergoing hemodialysis.