Psychosocial Impacts of Chronic Kidney Disease and Dialysis Therapy

Background: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) has been a significant global health problem and a source of an enormous burden on the healthcare system and psychological distress for diagnosed patients. This study aims to understand the psychosocial impacts of CKD and dialysis therapy on patients undergoing dialysis in LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Osogbo. Methodology: A descriptive study design was used, and the sampling technique was purposive. Subject participation was voluntary and preceded informed consent. Patients that had CKD and undergoing dialysis were identified. Data were collected, cleaned, and analysed using SPSS Version 23. Results: Patients perceptions of life and social limitations due to CKD and dialysis therapy revealed that 74.1% of the respondents always feel anxious, 67.8% feel that adjusting to dialysis is difficult, 85.5% of the respondents think that CKD and dialysis therapy is making them poorer, 90.3% feel they were neglecting important activities in life due to dialysis therapy. There was a significant relationship between patients’ perception of life and social limitations and the perceived influence of dialysis therapy on family functions and support persons (p<0.05) as well as the level of income and behavioural compliance. Conclusion: Our study revealed that CKD and dialysis therapy have major psychosocial impacts on the patients although many can cope well. We recommend more financial supports and interventions for CKD patients undergoing dialysis therapy. Doi: 10.28991/SciMedJ-2021-0302-5 Full Text: PDF