Theory-Based Interventions to Promote Fluid Intake Adherence Among Dialysis Patients: A Systematic Review

Dialysis involves a complex regimen including diet, fluid, medication, and treatment. Therapeutic regimen adherence determines the therapeutic success, quality of life, and survival of patients on dialysis. Complying with fluid management is the most difficult among the therapeutic regimen. Several theory-based interventions have been designed to promote fluid intake compliance in patients receiving dialysis. This review has two aims. One is to explore the effectiveness of theory-based interventions. The other is to examine the extent of the combination of theory and interventions in improving adherence to fluid intake among dialysis patients.

A literature review was performed using PubMed, PsycINFO, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library to acquire associated studies. Data were extracted independently by two researchers. The degree of theory application was accessed using a theory coding scheme (TCS).

Eight studies were identified as eligible for inclusion, and five theories were cited as basis (health belief model, social cognitive theory, self-regulation model, transtheoretical model). According to the TCS, adherence outcomes and the extent of theory use were not optimal.

Combining theory with patient health education might be beneficial in improving fluid intake adherence of dialysis patients. The framework and TCS could be considered to guide theory utilization and promote nursing education in improving the quality of renal nursing care.