Effect of educational intervention on the quality of life of hyperphosphathemic chronic renal patients on hemodialysis

Abstract

Objective: to evaluate the health-related quality of life of hyperphosphatemic chronic renal patients on hemodialysis before and after a nursing educational intervention. Method: a quasi-experimental before-and-after study, conduted with 63 hyperphosphatemic chronic renal patients from a renal unit of the state of Rio Grande do Sul (Brazil). A sociodemographic and clinical characterization form was used, pruritus intensity record, Kidney Disease Quality of Life - Short Form and Nursing Educational Intervention. This included individual guidance, clarification of doubts and a printed manual. Laboratory data and pruritus evaluated before, 30 and 60 days after intervention, and quality of life, before and after two months. Analysis from descriptive and analytical measures. Results: after the intervention, there was a statistical difference between the mean scores of the following dimensions: Physical function, Emotional function, Energy/Fatigue, List of problems/symptoms and Cognitive function. Significant correlation was found in the following dimensions: Physical functioning, Physical function, Pain, General health, Emotional wellbeing, List of problems/symptoms, Effects of kidney disease, Kidney disease overload, Sleep and stimulation by the dialysis team. With the intervention there was a reduction in phosphorus, creatinine, calcium and parathyroid hormone levels. Itching also decreased. Regarding the evaluation of their health, 31.7% considered it “good” and 58.8% “regular” before the intervention; afterwards, 50.8% and 36.5% rated it as “good” and “fair” respectively. Conclusion: nursing educational intervention improves health-related quality of life and health perception of hyperphosphatemic chronic renal patients on hemodialysis.