Health Literacy and Emotional Management in Patients on Renal Replacement Therapy: A Mixed-Method Study Protocol

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Health Literacy Research
• Patient-Centered Care

Background:

• Patients on renal replacement therapy (RRT) face significant quality of life impacts due to dialysis, self-care demands, and restrictions.
• Limited health literacy negatively affects self-care adherence, treatment effectiveness, and health outcomes in RRT patients.
• Existing approaches often overlook the multifaceted needs and environmental influences on RRT patients' well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and develop a tailored action protocol for improving health literacy and emotional management in patients undergoing RRT.
• To address the specific needs of RRT patients by considering organizational, structural, care, and relational dimensions.
• To create a clinically applicable tool that enhances patient self-care and overall quality of life.

Main Methods:

• Utilizes the Ophelia (Optimizing Health Literacy and Access) methodology over a three-year period (2025-2027).
• Employs a mixed-methods design to assess health literacy, coping strategies, self-care adherence, and quality of life.
• Involves protocol development based on scientific evidence and patient needs, followed by expert panel validation (patients, professionals, managers).

Main Results:

• Anticipates the creation of a novel, evidence-based action protocol.
• The protocol is designed for practical application within clinical settings.
• Expected to provide a framework for improving patient engagement and understanding of their treatment.

Conclusions:

• The developed protocol is expected to enhance health literacy and emotional management for patients on RRT.
• Aims to support healthcare administrators, providers, and patients in optimizing care delivery and patient outcomes.
• Ultimately seeks to improve treatment adherence, health outcomes, and the quality of life for the RRT population.