Self-Care Behaviors in Patients Receiving Hemodialysis: A Systematic Review of Recent Evidence.

BACKGROUND

Patients diagnosed with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) often face significant lifestyle adjustments upon commencing regular hemodialysis. Emphasizing self-care becomes crucial to enhance longevity and diminish hospitalization rates. This study aimed to scrutinize the nature and impact of self-care practices among individuals undergoing hemodialysis treatment.

METHODS

A systematic review search was conducted, utilizing five databases, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Cochrane. The search was limited to the years 2010-2024. Studies were deemed eligible for inclusion if published in English and evaluated the self-care behaviors of patients receiving hemodialysis.

RESULTS

Through meticulous searching, 716 articles were identified. After thorough screening, 32 studies aligned with the criteria and were included in the final analysis. The articles encompassed various types, such as clinical trials, quasi-experimental, descriptive, correlational, and cross-sectional studies. The collective insights from 3350 hemodialysis patients worldwide revealed seven primary categories of self-care behavior: 1) Dietary management, 2) Physical exercise, 3) Mental health management, 4) Maintenance of fistula, 5) Compliance with medication, 6) Post-dialysis issue management, and 7) Fluid regulation.

CONCLUSIONS

Self-care practices play a pivotal role in enhancing the treatment outcomes of Patients Receiving Hemodialysis (PRH), simplifying therapy administration, and addressing potential complications effectively. Furthermore, the review underscores the importance of socio-economic factors, including education and income level, in shaping patients' self-care behaviors. It was observed that patients with higher education levels tended to engage more in physical activities and maintain better self-care practices.