Relationship Between Fluid Control and Symptom Severity in Hemodialysis Patients

Abstract

Objective: This study was conducted to determine fluid control and symptom severity in hemodialysis patients, to reveal related factors, and to determine the relationship between fluid control and symptom severity. Methods: The descriptive and correlational study was conducted with 150 patients receiving treatment in a private hemodialysis center in Istanbul between 01-30 April 2022. Data were obtained using a patient identification form, the Fluid Control Scale in Hemodialysis Patients and the Dialysis Symptom Index. Results: The mean Fluid Control Scale in Hemodialysis Patients score of the patients was 50.75 +/- 8.13. The mean Dialysis Symptom Index score of the patients was 19.09 +/- 17.08. In addition, it was found that there was a weak negative correlation between the mean scores of the Fluid Control Scale in Hemodialysis Patients and the Dialysis Symptom Index (r=-0.349; p<0.05). Conclusion: It has been determined that the fluid control of hemodialysis patients is generally at a moderate level, the symptom severity is quite low, and the symptom level may decrease as the level of knowledge, behavior, and attitude toward fluid control increases. It is recommended that nurses should regularly educate and counsel hemodialysis patients about the importance of fluid control and closely monitor the patient's compliance with fluid control.