Chronic pain assessment in moroccan hemodialysis population

Abstract

Introduction: This study aims to assess the prevalence, as well as the impact of chronic pain on the daily life of hemodialysis patients and to determine the associated socio-demographic, clinical-biological, and psychological factors. Methods: This study was a cross-sectional study that included 441 hemodialysis patients. The characteristics of the chronic pain were collected by the Brief Pain Inventory questionnaire and by the visual analog scale. The anxious and depressed mood was assessed by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, factors associated with chronic pain were determined through univariate and multivariate analysis. Results: the prevalence of chronic pain was 72.8%. It was severe in 40.8% of cases and it completely interfered with general activity in 72.9% of cases. The most frequently reported pain site was: lowers extremities (39.9%). Thus, 59.9% of patients reported using analgesics, with a frequent intake in 74.3% of cases. Anxiety and depression were found respectively in 68% and 66% of cases. The chronic pain was significantly associated with depression (p<0.001), anxiety (p<0.001), living conditions (p<0.001), level of studies (p<0.001), and marital status (p=0.020). Conclusion: A multidisciplinary approach is recommended for the management of chronic pain, involves Nurses, physiotherapists, psychologists, health educators and family.