Assessment of Illness Perception in End Stage Renal Disease Patients on Hemodialysis in Public Sector Tertiary Care Hospital, Mardan: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Chronic kidney disease, specifically end-stage renal disease (ESRD), is a global health burden that demands renal replacement therapy, including dialysis for patient care. ESRD is a noteworthy global health concern, affecting about 14.5% of the world’s population. ESRD patients present with physical, emotional and social problems related to their chronic disease. Understanding patients' perceptions of their illness is crucial for improving adherence to treatment plans and overall disease management.

Objectives: The primary purpose of this study is to evaluate illness perception and the relationship between these perceptions and the quality of life of patients with ESRD undergoing hemodialysis.

Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed to compare the illness perceptions of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients undergoing hemodialysis at Mardan Medical Complex, a public-sector tertiary care hospital in Mardan, Pakistan. A convenience sampling method was used to select a total sample size of 111 patients, who reported their experiences regarding the perception of illness severity, effectiveness of treatment, and emotional state related to the disease. Before Data collection, Formal permission and approval were obtained from the Ethical Review Board of the relevant department.

Results: Patients identified hypertension as the primary perceived cause of illness in 40.5% of the cases, followed by diabetes mellitus (27%). Regarding the illness, certainty, and concerns, the majority of participants (58.5%) expressed extreme concern. In their perception of illness, participants indicated that they experienced different levels of illness impairment on the emotional aspects (49.6%) were feeling severely affected. Similarly, (45%) perceived that their treatment was moderately effective.

Conclusion: The study emphasizes the need to consider patients‘perceptions and attitudes to the disease in treating ESRD. Healthcare workers must ensure that patient education, support activities, and management of emotional complaints are key aspects of improving treatment outcomes and quality of life. The present study suggests the need for additional studies to identify the needs of ESRD patients while on hemodialysis, as well as to conduct interventional studies to enhance their needs being met.