Renal nutrition knowledge among haemodialysis patients: a multicentre cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Significant gaps in nutritional knowledge exist among haemodialysis patients, representing a critical opportunity for community nursing intervention. This study aimed to assess renal-specific nutrition knowledge among haemodialysis patients in Southern Iraq, with implications for community nursing practice.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 240 haemodialysis patients (median age 52 years) in Basrah, selected via Stratified random sampling. Knowledge was assessed using a piloted questionnaire, focusing on phosphorus, potassium and sodium intake. IBM SPSS Statistics 25 was used to analyse data. Data were summarised using means and percentages, and examined for group differences and correlations.

RESULTS

Low knowledge levels were prevalent among haemodialysis patients (64.2%). Patients aged 40 years or older demonstrated significantly higher knowledge scores than their younger counterparts (P<0.001). Furthermore, higher income was positively correlated with greater knowledge (r=0.165, P=0.011), indicating the influence of socioeconomic status.

CONCLUSIONS

Significant gaps in nutritional knowledge exist among haemodialysis patients, particularly younger individuals and those with lower incomes. These findings highlight a critical opportunity for community nurses and nutritionists to take a proactive role in dietary education and support.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Community nurses can substantially improve dietary management and patient outcomes in renal failure by integrating routine nutritional assessments during home visits, developing tailored educational strategies for different age groups and advocating for resources to support patients with financial constraints.