Adherence to medical regime and related factors in youngsters on dialysis

A pilot study is reported in which 18 children in end-stage renal failure, undergoing either haemodialysis or continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis were assessed with regard to adherence to their treatment regime. Measures were used to assess level of depression, locus of control and social desirability. Adherent behaviour was significantly related to high social desirability, and a shorter length of time on dialysis. There was no relationship between adherence and depression or locus of control.