Coping with Intradialytic Events and Stress Associated with Hemodialysis

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Psychology
• Patient Health

Background:

• Intradialytic events (IDEs) are significant stressors for patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD).
• Understanding the relationship between coping mechanisms and perceived stress is crucial for improving patient well-being during HD treatment.
• Previous research has not fully explored the specific coping strategies employed by patients who have experienced IDEs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between various coping strategies and the level of stress experienced by patients undergoing hemodialysis after an intradialytic event.
• To identify which coping strategies are most effective in mitigating stress related to hemodialysis.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional correlational design was employed.
• A convenience sample of 73 hemodialysis patients who had experienced an IDE completed validated questionnaires assessing demographics, coping strategies (Ways of Coping Questionnaire), and hemodialysis-related stress (Hemodialysis Stress Visual Analog Scale).

Main Results:

• Coping strategies accounted for 34% of the variance in hemodialysis stress (p=0.004).
• Positive reappraisal and planful problem-solving coping strategies were found to be negatively correlated with stress.
• Emotion-focused coping strategies were the most frequently utilized during intradialytic events.

Conclusions:

• Specific coping strategies, particularly positive reappraisal and planful problem-solving, can significantly reduce stress associated with hemodialysis in patients who have experienced intradialytic events.
• Interventions aimed at promoting adaptive coping mechanisms may help alleviate stress and improve the quality of life for hemodialysis patients.
• Further research should explore the long-term impact of different coping strategies on patient outcomes in hemodialysis.