Using Creative Activities to Improve Treatment Perceptions of Patients on Hemodialysis

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Patient Care
• Quality of Life Studies

Background:

• Hemodialysis (HD) significantly impacts patients' health-related quality of life (HRQoL).
• Chronic HD patients often experience boredom and inactivity during treatment sessions.
• Assessing mental and physical status is crucial for understanding HD patient well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of intradialysis recreational and therapeutic activities on the mental and physical status of chronic hemodialysis patients.
• To assess patient acceptance and willingness to participate in novel intradialysis therapies.
• To explore potential improvements in HRQoL through structured patient engagement.

Main Methods:

• An observational study involving 41 patients undergoing chronic HD.
• Implementation of a program of recreational and therapeutic intradialysis activities.
• Reassessment of patients' mental and physical status after a 12-month intervention period.

Main Results:

• All patients positively rated the initial introduction of recreational activities.
• Willingness to participate in activities increased significantly from 50.00% to 85.71% (p=0.019).
• A non-significant decrease in anxiety was observed; other variables showed no improvement.

Conclusions:

• The implemented intradialysis activity program is a promising initiative for hemodialysis patients.
• Positive patient reception and increased participation suggest the program's potential for enhancing well-being.
• Further development and inclusion of additional therapies are planned to consolidate the program's success.