Effect of Complementary and Integrative Treatments on Fatigue Symptoms in Hemodialysis Patients: A Systematic Review

Although hemodialysis treatment is one of the main treatment methods in chronic kidney failure, it also causes many health problems. A variety of complementary and integrative therapies are used to relieve or minimize hemodialysis symptoms. Fatigue (60%-97%) is also one of these problems. Therefore, we have conducted a systematic review to determine the effect of complementary and integrative therapies on fatigue in hemodialysis patients. Relevant studies published from 2005 to 2019, in PubMed, EBSCOhost, ScienceDirect, and Cochran Library databases have been reviewed. In the study, initially, 21 039 pieces of data were obtained, and then 14 randomized controlled studies meeting the inclusion criteria were reviewed. The methodological qualities of the articles included in the study were determined by using the quality evaluation checklist in Jadad randomized controlled studies. In the literature, acupressure, aromatherapy, reflexology, massage, and yoga practice were found to be applied to hemodialysis patients and be effective in reducing pain and anxiety as well as improving sleep quality. It is recommended that these methods be included in the routine clinical care of patients receiving hemodialysis.