Effect of Ice-Chip Sucking on Thirst Distress and Xerostomia Among Patients with End-Stage Renal Disease: An Experimental Study

Abstract

Objective: Managing end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients to adhere to fluid restrictions is one of the most challenging aspects of care, as thirst and dry mouth are common symptoms that cause significant discomfort. This current study aimed to investigate the effect of ice-chip sucking on thirst control distress and xerostomia among patients with ESRD. Methods: An experimental study was conducted with 30 samples each for the experimental and control groups, matching the inclusion criteria. A pretest assessment was done using the Thirst Distress Scale and Xerostomia Inventory for the experimental and control groups. The experimental group received ice chips to suck every 2 hours for 3 days, whereas the control group received room-temperature water chips. The posttest assessment was done at the end of the intervention. Results: In the experimental group pretest, out of 30 participants, 10 (33.3%) had severe thirst distress, whereas in the posttest, after 3 days of administration of ice-chip sucking, none had severe thirst distress; only 4 (13.3%) had moderate, 19 (63.3%) had mild, and 7 (23.3%) had no thirst distress. There was a statistically significant decrease in thirst intensity and dry mouth between pre- and post-intervention within the experimental group and post-assessment between the experimental and control groups at the level of P < .05. Conclusion: The current study findings concluded that sucking ice chips was effective in reducing the level of thirst distress and xerostomia among patients with ESRD. It is also safe, harmless, and feasible to administer in hospitals and home settings.