FACTORS IMPACTING HEMODIALYSIS TREATMENT ADHERENCE IN END-STAGE RENAL DISEASE PATIENTS RECEIVING IN-CENTER...

End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) is a significant health concern globally, with hemodialysis (HD) being the primary treatment modality for patients with this condition. Adherence to HD sessions is crucial for optimal patient outcomes, yet non-adherence remains a common issue. This study aimed to evaluate the factors influencing adherence to HD sessions among ESRD patients in Qassim region.

A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted involving 172 ESRD patients receiving in-center HD in Qassim region. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that assessed demographic characteristics, adherence behaviors, and factors influencing adherence to HD treatment. Non-adherence was defined as missing one or more HD sessions per month or shortened one or more sessions by more than 10 min per month.

The study found that 22(12.79%) of patients missed one or more HD sessions in the past three months, with the primary reasons being family or personal issues, health-related problems, and transportation difficulties. The majority of the patients (97.7%) acknowledged the importance of adhering to HD sessions. Factors significantly associated with non-adherence included patients' perception of the importance of HD sessions and experiences of post-dialysis fatigue. Lack of social support and post-dialysis hypotension were observed but not statistically significant.

Non-adherence to HD sessions in Qassim region is influenced by a combination of personal, social, and health-related factors. Addressing these factors through targeted interventions could improve adherence rates and, consequently, patient outcomes. Future research should focus on developing and testing such interventions.