Patient Perspectives on the Meaning and Impact of Fatigue in Hemodialysis: A Systematic Review and Thematic Analysis of Qualitative Studies

Development and validation of a nomogram to estimate fatigue probability in hemodialysis patients

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to investigate the factors that influence fatigue in hemodialysis (HD) patients and to develop and validate a nomogram to estimate the probability of fatigue in this population.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study collected 453 patients who underwent HD at the tertiary hospital in Hubei, China, from April to December 2023. They were randomly divided into a 70% training group (n = 316) and a 30% validation group (n = 137). In the training set, factors influencing fatigue were screened using multivariate logistic regression analysis, and a nomogram was developed to estimate fatigue probability in HD patients. The discrimination and calibration of the nomogram were validated in both the training and validation sets through the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) and the Hosmer-Lemeshow (H-L) test.

RESULTS

In the training group, logistic regression showed that age, dialysis vintage, inter-dialysis weight gain, hemoglobin, depression, insomnia, and social support were variables associated with fatigue in HD patients. Based on these factors, a nomogram for assessing fatigue probability in HD patients was developed. The AUC was 0.955 (95% CI: 0.932-0.977) and 0.979 (95% CI: 0.961-0.997) in the training and validation sets. The results from the H-L test indicated a good fit.

CONCLUSION

The nomogram can evaluate fatigue probability in HD patients and may serve as a convenient clinical tool.

Patient perspectives and preferences for rehabilitation among people living with frailty and chronic kidney disease: a qualitative evaluation

BACKGROUND

Understanding the patient perspective of frailty is critical to offering holistic patient-centred care. Rehabilitation strategies for patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) and frailty are limited in their ability to overcome patient-perceived barriers to participation, resulting in high rates of drop-out and non-adherence. The aim of this study was to explore patient perspectives and preferences regarding experiences with rehabilitation to inform a CKD/Frailty rehabilitation model.

METHODS

This qualitative study involved two focus groups, six individual semi-structured interviews and three caregiver semi-structured interviews with lived experience of advanced kidney disease and frailty. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and coded for meaningful concepts and analysed using inductive thematic analysis using constant comparative method of data analysis employing Social Cognitive Theory.

RESULTS

Six major themes emerged including accommodating frailty is an act of resilience, exercise is endorsed for rehabilitation but existing programs have failed to meet end-users' needs. Rehabilitation goals were framed around return to normative behaviours and rehabilitation should have a social dimension, offering understanding for "people like us". Participants reported on barriers and disruptors to frailty rehabilitation in the CKD context. Participants valued peer-to-peer education, the camaraderie of socialisation and the benefit of feedback for maintaining motivation. Patients undertaking dialysis described the commodity of time and the burden of unresolved symptoms as barriers to participation. Participants reported difficulty envisioning strategies for frailty rehabilitation, maintaining a focus on the immediate and avoidance of future uncertainty.

CONCLUSIONS

Frailty rehabilitation efforts in CKD should leverage shared experiences, address comorbidity and symptom burden and focus on goals with normative value.

The lived experiences of fatigue among patients receiving haemodialysis in Oman: a qualitative exploration

BACKGROUND

Fatigue among patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) receiving haemodialysis imposes a substantial burden on patients' quality of life and expected treatment outcomes. This study explores the perspective on ESKD-related fatigue and contributing factors among Omani patients receiving haemodialysis.

METHODS

An exploratory qualitative design was used. Participants (N = 25) were recruited from two Omani haemodialysis centres, and data were collected through semi-structured interviews, which were transcribed and analysed using a thematic analysis approach. NVivo 11 is used to manage qualitative data and create memos, nodes, and codes.

RESULTS

Findings highlighted three themes: (i)"Inevitability of fatigue," (ii)"Contributors to physical fatigue," and (iii)"Contributors to mental fatigue." Theme one alluded to the inevitability of fatigue and the unique experience encountered by patients. Theme two addressed the physical fatigue associated with ESKD-related factors, such as chronically low haemoglobin levels, and the exhausting impact caused by the frequency and travelling distance for treatment sessions. Theme three, mental fatigue, was notably driven by heightened emotional disturbance, encompassing frustration, guilt, anxiety, and distress, that in turn impacted family interactions, frequently triggering anger and remorse. Moreover, mental fatigue is a result of disturbances in expressing physical sexuality in marriage, as physical fatigue was found to be a significant contributor to unsatisfactory sexual experiences and, thus, straining the relationships between couples.

CONCLUSIONS

This study offers an explanation of fatigue among Omani patients with ESKD who are receiving haemodialysis. The study emphasises close links between physiological change, the haemodialysis process, and mental tiredness, together with their contribution to supporting the need for a holistic approach and care strategies in managing these patients and promoting patient and family well-being.

Effect of online hemodiafiltration on quality of life, fatigue and recovery time: a systematic review and meta-analysis

The present systematic review and meta-analysis aims to compare the effect of bicarbonate hemodialysis and HDF on quality of life (QoL), fatigue, and time to recovery in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. Searches were run on January 2024 and updated on 3 March 2024 in the following databases: Ovid MEDLINE (1985 to present); Ovid EMBASE (1985 to present); Cochrane Library (Wiley); PubMed (1985 to present). Ten articles were fully assessed for eligibility and included in the investigation. Compared to HD, online HDF had a pooled MD of the mental component score (MCS) of the SF-36 of 0.98 (95% CI - 0.92, 2.87; P = 0.31). and of the physical component score (PCS) of 0.08 (95% CI - 1.32, 1.48; P = 0.91). No significant heterogeneity was observed (Chi2 = 4.85; I2 = 38%; P = 0.18 and Chi2 = 3.85; I2 = 22%; P = 0.28, respectively). Studies that compared the QoL assessed through the Kidney Disease Questionnaire or KDQOL-SF and show that HDF does not improve QoL when compared with HD, in most studies. In five out of seven studies, HDF was not significantly more effective than HD in improving fatigue. The length of the recovery time resulted in similar in patients receiving HDF and HD in all studies included in the present review. HDF is not more effective than HD in improving QoL and fatigue and in reducing the length of time of recovery after dialysis.

Analysis of factors influencing the trajectory of fatigue in maintenance haemodialysis patients: a longitudinal study

OBJECTIVE

To explore the potential categories and influencing factors of fatigue trajectory in maintenance haemodialysis patients.

METHODS

Between June 2023 and December 2023, a convenience sample of 306 maintenance haemodialysis patients in a tertiary hospital haemodialysis centre in Zhenjiang City was selected as the study population, and patient information was collected monthly after the baseline survey using the General Information Questionnaire, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Scale, Piper Fatigue Revision Scale, Collaborative Social Support Scale, Patient Health Questionnaire Depression Scale, Comprehensive Economic Toxicity Rating Scale, and Fear of Disease Progression Simplified Scale, for a total of six follow-up visits. In addition, the potential category growth model was used to identify the developmental trajectory of fatigue, and univariate analysis and binary logistic regression were used to analyse its determinants.

RESULTS

The 6 month fatigue trajectory of maintenance haemodialysis patients could be divided into two categories: persistent low-fatigue group (59.8%) and fluctuating high-fatigue group (40.2%). Age, surgical history, level of social support, sleep, economic toxicity, and changes in ultrafiltration volume during dialysis were the influencing factors for repeated fatigue in maintenance haemodialysis patients (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The fatigue trajectory of maintenance haemodialysis patients is heterogeneous, suggesting that clinical workers should focus on the haemodialysis patients with repeated fatigue and make targeted interventions to improve their fatigue status and reduce the occurrence of adverse events in patients.

Exploring the nexus between fatigue, body composition, and muscle strength in hemodialysis patients

BACKGROUND

Fatigue is a relatively prevalent condition among hemodialysis patients, resulting in diminished health-related quality of life and decreased survival rates. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between fatigue and body composition in hemodialysis patients.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 92 patients in total. Fatigue was measured by Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy - Fatigue (FACIT-F) (cut-off ≤ 34). Body composition was measured based on quantitative computed tomography (QCT), parameters including skeletal muscle index (SMI), intermuscular adipose tissue (IMAT), and bone mineral density (BMD). Handgrip strength was also collected. To explore the relationship between fatigue and body composition parameters, we conducted correlation analyses and binary logistic regression.

RESULTS

The prevalence of fatigue was 37% (n = 34), abnormal bone density was 43.4% (n = 40). There was a positive correlation between handgrip strength and FACIT-F score (r = 0.448, p < 0.001). Age (r = - 0.411, p < 0.001), IMAT % (r = - 0.424, p < 0.001), negatively associated with FACIT-F score. Multivariate logistic regression analysis shows that older age, lower serum phosphorus, higher IMAT% are associated with a high risk of fatigue.

CONCLUSION

The significantly increased incidence and degree of fatigue in hemodialysis patients is associated with more intermuscular adipose tissue in paraspinal muscle.

Translation, cultural adaptation, and validation of the Chinese standardized outcomes in nephrology-hemodialysis fatigue (C-SONG-HD fatigue) scale: a study of Chinese patients undergoing hemodialysis

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to translate and culturally adapt the standardized outcomes in nephrology-hemodialysis fatigue (SONG-HD fatigue) scale and to assess the psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the SONG-HD fatigue (C-SONG-HD fatigue) scale.

METHODS

Forward and back translations were used to translate the SONG-HD fatigue scale into Chinese. We used the C-SONG-HD fatigue scale to survey Chinese patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD) in China. We examined the distribution of responses and floor and ceiling effects. Cronbach's alpha and McDonald's omega coefficient, intraclass coefficients, and Spearman correlations were used to assess internal consistency reliability, test-retest reliability, and convergent validity, respectively. Responsiveness was also evaluated.

RESULTS

In total, 489 participants across southeast China, northwest China, and central China completed the study. The C-SONG-HD fatigue scale had good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha coefficient 0.861, omega coefficient 0.916), test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient 0.695), and convergent validity (Spearman correlation 0.691). The analysis of all first-time HD patients did not show notable responsiveness, and only patients with temporary vascular access had good responsiveness with an effect size (ES) of 0.54, a standardized response mean (SRM) of 0.85, and a standard error of measurement (SEM) of 0.77.

CONCLUSION

The Chinese version of the SONG-HD fatigue scale showed satisfactory reliability and validity in patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD) in China. It could be used as a tool to measure the fatigue of Chinese HD patients.

Live music during haemodialysis: A multiple methods randomised controlled pilot study

BACKGROUND

Fatigue is an immense problem among patients undergoing haemodialysis and is associated with anxiety and depression. Live music used in different hospital settings has shown promising effects, but the feasibility and potential effectiveness of live music during haemodialysis are unknown.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the feasibility, the participants' musical experience and potential effectiveness of live music on patients' levels of fatigue, relaxation, anxiety, depression, treatment satisfaction and work engagement among nurses.

DESIGN

A pilot randomised controlled trial evaluated with a multiple methods design.

PARTICIPANTS

Two clusters of 12 patients were each randomised to receive either 30 min of live music once a week during haemodialysis or usual care over a period of 6 weeks.

MEASUREMENTS

The primary outcome was patients' immediate fatigue. Other outcomes were patients' long-term and post-dialysis fatigue, relaxation, anxiety, depression, treatment satisfaction and work engagement among nurses. Observations and semi-structured interviews with patients, nurses and musicians were conducted to gain an in-depth understanding of the musical experience as well as feasibility.

RESULTS

The study was feasible and detected significant differences on immediate fatigue (p < 0.001) and anxiety (p < 0.012) in the intervention group compared to controls. Among 17 nurses, a significant difference was found in Dedication (p < 0.024). Furthermore, live music gave patients an uplifting experience, bringing joy and relaxation and the nurses experienced a sense of quietness in a stressful day.

CONCLUSIONS

Providing live music performed by professional musicians in a haemodialysis setting is feasible and showed a significant effect on immediate fatigue and anxiety compared to controls.

Contemporary Practice of Anemia Treatment Among Dialysis Patients in the United States

Introduction

The treatment of anemia is a major activity in the care of patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis (HD). The comparative effectiveness of new pharmacologic treatments, relative to erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs), should be anticipated on the bases of controlled trials and current practice. We describe the contemporary practice of anemia treatment in a national cohort of patients undergoing maintenance HD.

Methods

We analyzed the United States Renal Data System (USRDS) data to identify adult patients undergoing in-facility HD in 2016 to 2019. Using the Consolidated Renal Operations in a Web-Enabled Network (CROWNWeb) dataset, we identified hemoglobin and ESA utilization (agent and cumulative dose) during each patient-month, as well as intravenous (IV) iron utilization, ferritin, and transferrin saturation. We compared ESA dosing during the study era to dosing in the Normal Hematocrit Cardiac Trial (NHCT), conducted in the 1990s. We assessed ESA hyporesponsiveness by estimating the prevalence of the following: (i) high erythropoietin resistance index (ERI) and (ii) either 3 or 6 consecutive months with hemoglobin <10 g/dl.

Results

Nearly two-thirds of patient-months had hemoglobin of 10.0 to 11.9 g/dl. Mean ESA utilization was 76.7% per month, with increasing use of pegylated epoetin beta. ESA dosing was stable; epoetin alfa dosing was slightly lower than in the low-target arm of the NHCT. The prevalence of ESA hyporesponsiveness was 22.2% if defined by high ERI, but only 2.1% to 6.0% if defined by 3 to 6 consecutive months with hemoglobin <10 g/dl. Median transferrin saturation was 22.3% with high ERI and persistently low hemoglobin.

Conclusion

Hemoglobin and ESA dosing distributions are stable, with epoetin alfa dosing below the low-target arm of the NHCT. Persistently low hemoglobin occurs infrequently and may reflect iron depletion.

Association of illness perception and alexithymia with fatigue in hemodialysis recipients: a single-center, cross-sectional study

Fatigue in hemodialysis recipients interferes with daily activities and renal rehabilitation, and its underlying causes and treatment remain unclear. Psychological factors, like illness perceptions and alexithymia, cause fatigue in other diseases; however, their contribution to hemodialysis-related fatigue is unknown. This cross-sectional study included 53 hemodialysis recipients. To assess participants' fatigue, we used a self-administered patient-reported outcome questionnaire whose items have shown correlation with those of established scales, such as the Profile of Mood States and Visual Analogue Scales. The associations among the scores of the revised Illness Perceptions Questionnaire (IPQ-R), Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and fatigue were analyzed using bivariable and multivariable analyses. Patients with fatigue had significantly higher median scores for the IPQ-R subscales "Identity" and "Negative emotional representation about illness" than those without fatigue, suggesting the association of specific illness perception with fatigue. Median scores for the TAS-20 subscale "Difficulty identifying feelings" were also significantly higher among fatigued patients, suggesting the association of alexithymia with fatigue. Depression was not associated with fatigue. Multivariable logistic regression revealed the association of a high "Identity" score with the risk of fatigue (adjusted odds ratio, 1.32; 95% confidence interval, 1.00-1.73; P = 0.04), while there were no significant association between a high "Difficulty identifying feelings" score and the risk of fatigue (adjusted odds ratio, 1.09; 95% confidence interval, 0.95-1.24). Specific illness perception and alexithymia were slightly associated with hemodialysis-related fatigue. Cognitive-behavioral therapy for these conditions could reduce fatigue and promote renal rehabilitation.

The impact of in-centre haemodialysis treatment on the everyday life of older adults with end-stage kidney disease: a qualitative study

Background

Older adults with end-stage kidney disease experience a diminished ability to perform the activities of their daily life. For those living at home, the initiation of in-centre haemodialysis treatment (ICHD) carries a risk of cascading functional decline leading to early nursing home placement and mortality. Research on how older adults adapt to their newly impacted daily life is scarce.

Methods

Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted using a purposeful maximum variation sample of older adult (≥65 years) ICHD patients living at home. Interviews were conducted between October and December 2018. Interview coding followed an inductive and broad-based approach. Thematic analysis was used to group meaning units into common themes and subthemes.

Results

Twenty patients (12 females) were interviewed. Analysis resulted in two main themes and seven subthemes. The first main theme showed the impact of ICHD on everyday roles and functioning through four subthemes: a stepwise decline in daily activities, managing time, role changes and an incomplete retirement. The second main theme showed potential areas of remediation through three subthemes: the social environment, developing new daily activity patterns and meaningful activities and goals.

Conclusions

The older adults experienced a process of adaptation that generally progressed from a phase of initial disruption towards a period of mere survival. Being able to accept a life on dialysis was intricately connected with the ability to perform activities that were personally meaningful. Early and continued support of meaningful activities may prove valuable in breaking or delaying the cycle of functional decline.

Fatigue in Patients Receiving Maintenance Hemodialysis: A Review

Fatigue surrounding hemodialysis treatments is a common and often debilitating symptom that impacts patients' quality of life. Intradialytic fatigue develops or worsens immediately before hemodialysis and persists through the dialysis treatment. Little is known about associated risk factors or pathophysiology, although it may relate to a classic conditioning response. Postdialysis fatigue (PDF) develops or worsens after hemodialysis and may persist for hours. There is no consensus on how to measure PDF. Estimates for the prevalence of PDF range from 20%-86%, likely due to variation in methods of ascertainment and participant characteristics. Several hypotheses seek to explain the pathophysiology of PDF, including inflammation, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysregulation, and osmotic and fluid shifts, but none is currently supported by compelling or consistent data. PDF is associated with several clinical factors, including cardiovascular and hemodynamic effects of the dialysis procedure, laboratory abnormalities, depression, and physical inactivity. Clinical trials have reported hypothesis-generating data about the utility of cold dialysate, frequent dialysis, clearance of large middle molecules, treatment of depression, and exercise as potential treatments. Existing studies are often limited by sample size, lack of a control group, observational design, or short intervention duration. Robust studies are needed to establish the pathophysiology and management of this important symptom.

Sleep Quality and Its Affecting Factors among Hemodialysis Patients: A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study

(1) Background: Sleep quality is one of the most important clinical outcomes of hemodialysis (HD) patients, as it can affect their physical and mental health. This study aimed to investigate sleep quality and its affecting factors among patients with HD. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional design was used to investigate the quality of sleep among HD patients in two cities in Saudi Arabia. The data were collected during the period from January to December 2022. A convenience sample of 250 HD patients was selected in this study. Data were collected using the Arabic version of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). (3) Results: About two-thirds of participants (63.6%) had normal sleep, while one-third had poor sleep (36.4%). There was a significant relationship between the participants' age and the quality of sleep, where participants who were aged more than 50 had poorer sleep than those who were younger (p < 0.001). Male and married participants significantly had poor sleep more than female and single participants (p = 0.011 and 0.015, respectively). In addition, participants who were retired, had a higher number of dependents, did not adhere to exercise, and had more comorbidities had significantly poorer sleep than other groups (p = 0.002, 0.016, 0.023, and <0.001, respectively). The level of education, financial status, distance from home to dialysis center, and participants' satisfaction at the time of dialysis had no influence on the quality of sleep among HD patients. The multiple linear regression shows that exercise (p = 0.017), the number of comorbidities (p = 0.008), and the duration of dialysis (p < 0.020) were the independent factors affecting the quality of sleep among HD patients. (4) Conclusions: About one-third of HD patients in this study had poor sleep. There were significant differences between patients' age, gender, marital status, and sleep-quality levels. Moreover, participants who retired, had a higher number of dependents, did not adhere to exercise, and had more comorbidities had significantly poorer sleep than other groups. Future studies should develop appropriate interventions to address the problem of poor sleep quality among HD patients.

Impacts of cognition of exercise on physical activity participation in hemodialysis patients

INTRODUCTION

Physical inactivity is a strong predictor of mortality in hemodialysis patients. Although regular physical activity reduces mortality, patients remain inactive. Comparing the cognition of exercise in hemodialysis patients with different physical activity status could highlight domains where inactive people experience heightened barriers to physical activity. We therefore assessed patients' perceived benefits and barriers to exercise using a standardized way, thereby informing future exercise interventions to address these barriers experienced by inactive patients.

METHODS

ESRD patients undergoing hemodialysis were recruited and asked to complete a human activity profile, wear a pedometer for seven consecutive days, and complete the Dialysis Patient-perceived Exercise Benefits and Barriers Scale (DPEBBS). Binominal Logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine which benefits and barriers are associated with physical activity. This cross-sectional observational study was registered as NCT05189795.

RESULTS

A total of 505 patients completed the survey, most of whom were male (67.1%), with an average age of 49.69 ± 13.96 years. And 52.67-76.63% patients on HAP questionnaire were inactive. The co-benefits in active patients were improving mood and prevention of muscle wasting but did not reach significance in physical activity level. Tiredness, muscle fatigue, and lack of knowledge of exercise were common barriers to patients, and all have a significant impact on a patient's physical activity level.

CONCLUSIONS

For inactive patients, exercise during hemodialysis can not only improve physical activity but also reduce family burden. And improving physical activity is a long-term project that cannot be separated from the support of hemodialysis medical staff.

Mental health and its influencing factors of maintenance hemodialysis patients: a semi-structured interview study

BACKGROUND

Maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) is a commonly used renal replacement therapy for end-stage renal disease patients. MHD patients have undergone multiple physiological stressors, which may cause physical problems and affect their mental health; however, few qualitative studies have been done on the mental health of MHD patients. Such qualitative research becomes the basis for further quantitative research and is critical to validating its results. Therefore, the current qualitative study used a semi-structured interview format, and aimed to explore the mental health and its influencing factors of MHD patients who are not receiving intervention treatment to determine how best to ameliorate their mental health.

METHODS

Based on the application of Grounded Theory, semi-structured face-to-face interviews were conducted with 35 MHD patients, following consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative studies (COREQ) guidelines. Two indicators (emotional state and well-being) were used to assess MHD patients' mental health. All interviews were recorded, after which two researchers independently performed data analyses using NVivo.

RESULTS

Acceptance of disease, complications, stress and coping styles, and social support were found to be the influencing factors of MHD patients' mental health. High acceptance of disease, healthy coping styles, and high social support were positively correlated with mental health. In contrast, low acceptance of disease, multiple complications, increased stress, and unhealthy coping styles were negatively correlated with mental health.

CONCLUSION

One's acceptance of the disease played a more significant role than other factors in affecting MHD patients' mental health.

Psychometric Properties of the Brief Fatigue Inventory in Hemodialysis Patients during a Dialysis Day: A Preliminary Report

The aim of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Brief Fatigue Inventory (BFI) in hemodialysis patients. During a dialysis day, patients completed both 9-item BFI and 21-item Beck Depression Inventory (BDI)-II questionnaires. The psychometric properties of the BFI were assessed in terms of reliability and validity. The BFI had an overall Cronbach's coefficient alpha of .92. Inter-item correlation coefficients between BFI items ranged from .38 to. 81 (all p < .0001). Exploratory factor analysis revealed bidimensional factor structure of the BFI-fatigue "severity" and fatigue "interference" explaining 11.0% and 62.0% of the total variance in the data set, respectively. In criterion validity analysis, BFI composite score correlated significantly with the total BDI-II score-Pearson correlation coefficient .40 (p < .0001). These preliminary results support the satisfactory psychometric properties of the BFI in assessing fatigue among hemodialysis patients during a dialysis day in a clinic setting.

"Alive Day is the Day": A Qualitative Study of Experiences of Learned Helplessness in Maintenance Haemodialysis Patients

Background

Learned helplessness (LH) is a common psychological phenomenon among chronic disease patients. However, LH remains underrecognized in the context of maintenance haemodialysis (MHD) patients. This qualitative study is the first study of this topic to be conducted in a Chinese cultural context, and its purpose is to explore the LH experiences of MHD patients and to highlight their interpretations of LH.

Methods

We employed a qualitative research design. A purposive sampling method was used to recruit participants. The sample size was determined by data saturation. Data were obtained from MHD patients in a blood purification centre located in Hunan Province, China. Data were collected from June to September 2022. The researchers conducted in-depth, semistructured interviews with participants after obtaining informed consent. Texts were transcribed verbatim from the audio recordings of these interviews. Data processing and analysis were based on Giorgi's phenomenological approach.

Results

Twenty-two respondents completed the interviews (aged 29-75 years, including ten females and twelve males). Four themes emerged from the interviews: (1) triggers of helplessness (hope is gone; witnessing renal friends' helplessness; out of control; nothing works); (2) being tied down (limitation; perceived loss; social isolation; giving in); (3) I am just a loser (self-image disorder; low self-concept; negative attitudes; guilt; abandonment); (4) alive day is the day (fatalism; my duty; downwards comparison).

Conclusion

The study reveals that multiple stressors drive MHD patients' LH. These salient phenomena demonstrate the importance of recognizing MHD patients' LH. We suggest that support services should be developed alongside a framework that addresses MHD patients' LH from the beginning of treatment.

Fatigue assessment and its predictors in pediatric patients with chronic kidney disease stages III to V

Background

Chronic fatigue is an intense subjective feeling of mental or physical exhaustion. It influences patients’ daily functioning and quality of life, delays recovery, and increases mortality, especially in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. The aim of this study is to assess and determine predictors of chronic fatigue in children with ESRD, dialysis, and pre-dialysis stages that can affect the patients’ quality of life (QOL).

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study on 114 patients diagnosed with CKD stages III to V, following at the nephrology outpatient clinic and hemodialysis (HD) unit of Cairo University Children’s Hospital during the period September 2020 till April 2021. Demographic and laboratory data of patients were gathered, and dialytic analysis in the form of frequency, duration of dialysis sessions, and adequacy of hemodialysis was calculated. The fatigue severity score (FSS) questionnaire was used to assess fatigue’s effects on daily functions, querying its relationship to motivation, physical activity, work, family, and social life.

Results

The mean age in the current study was (8.8 ± 1.8) years, with 62% being males. The median FSS score was 5.8, with a higher FSS score in stage V CKD patients. High e-GFR, serum sodium, folic acid, and L-carnitine supplementation all reduced the intensity of fatigue, while prolonged HD duration, acidosis, hypertension, and non-compliance to vitamin D replacement increased tiredness severity.

Conclusion

Routine fatigue assessment and measures to reduce it is a fundamental issue in pediatric CKD patients for better QOL.

In end-stage kidney disease, inflammation, erythron abnormalities and declined kidney function tests are accompanied by increased affective symptoms, chronic-fatigue, and fibromyalgia.. [DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.12.23284460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0]

Background

Numerous neuropsychiatric symptoms, including affective symptoms, chronic fatigue syndrome, and fibromyalgia symptoms, are present in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). This study examines the relationship between neuropsychiatric symptoms and red blood cell (RBC) parameters, kidney function tests, zinc, C-reactive protein, and calcium levels in patients with ESRD.

Methods

The above biomarkers and the Beck-Depression Inventory, the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale, and the Fibro-Fatigue Rating Scale were measured in 70 patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and 46 healthy controls.

Results

Increased scores of depressive, anxious, cognitive, and physiosomatic symptoms (including chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, and autonomous symptoms) characterise ESRD. One latent vector could be extracted from these diverse symptom domains, which are, therefore, manifestations of a common core referred to as the physio-affective phenome. The combined effects of aberrations in red blood cells (RBC) (number of RBC, hematocrit, and haemoglobin), kidney function tests (glomerular filtration rate, ureum, creatinine, albumin, and total serum protein), C-reactive protein, zinc, and copper explained 85.0% of the variance in the physio-affective phenome. In addition, the effects of kidney function decline on the phenome were partially mediated by RBC aberrations and elevated copper, whereas the effects of dialysis frequency were entirely mediated by decreased zinc and elevated CRP.

Conclusions

Affective (depression and anxiety), cognitive, and physiosomatic symptoms due to ESRD are interrelated manifestations of the physio-affective phenome, which is driven by (in descending order of importance) kidney dysfunctions, erythron deficits, inflammation, elevated copper, and decreased zinc.

Post-dialysis fatigue: Comparison of bicarbonate hemodialysis and online hemodiafiltration

INTRODUCTION

The present cross-sectional study aimed to compare the prevalence, the characteristics of post-dialysis fatigue and the length of recovery time after hemodialysis in prevalent end-stage renal disease patients (ESRD) receiving bicarbonate hemodialysis (HD) or hemodiafiltration (HDF).

METHODS

Patients were suffering from post-dialysis fatigue if they spontaneously offered this complaint when asked the open-ended question: "Do you feel fatigued after dialysis?". Moreover, each patient was invited to rate the intensity, duration, and frequency of post-dialysis fatigue from 1 to 5. In order to assess RECOVERY TIME AFTER DIALYSIS, patients were invited to answer to the following single open-ended question: "How long does it take you to recover from a dialysis session?"

FINDINGS

We included 335 patients: 252 received HD and 83 received HDF. Post-dialysis fatigue was present in 204 patients (60.9%). Prevalence of post-dialysis fatigue did not differ significantly between patients on HD (62.3%) and on HDF (56.6%; p = 0.430). Median recovery time after dialysis was 180 min [180-240] and did not differ significantly between the two subgroups (180 min [130-240] and 240 min [120-332] p = 0.671, respectively). Median post-dialysis fatigue intensity, duration, and frequency were 3 [1-5], 3 [1-5], and 4 [1-5] and did not differ significantly between patients on HD and on HDF. At the multivariate analysis, age, ADL and hemoglobin levels were the independent predictors of the HDF treatment.

DISCUSSION

Prevalence and characteristics of post-dialysis fatigue do not differ significantly between patients receiving bicarbonate HD or HDF.

A Causal-Pathway Phenotype of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome due to Hemodialysis in Patients with End-Stage Renal Disease

BACKGROUND

End-stage renal disease (ESRD) is associated with fatigue and physiosomatic symptoms.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to delineate the associations between severity of fatigue and physio-somatic symptoms and glomerular filtration rate, inflammatory biomarkers, and Wnt/cateninpathway proteins.

METHODS

The Wnt-pathway related proteins β-catenin, Dickkopf-related protein 1 (DKK1), R-spondin- 1, and sclerostin were measured by ELISA technique in 60 ESRD patients and 30 controls. The Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (FF) Rating Scale was used to assess the severity of FF symptoms.

RESULTS

ESRD is characterized by a significant increase in the total FF score, muscle tension, fatigue, sadness, sleep disorders, gastro-intestinal (GI) symptoms, and a flu-like malaise. The total-FF score was significantly correlated with serum levels of urea, creatinine, and copper (positively), and β-catenin, eGFR, hemoglobin, albumin, and zinc (inversely). The total-FF score was associated with the number of total dialysis and weekly dialysis sessions, and these dialysis characteristics were more important in predicting FF scores than eGFR measurements. Partial Least Squares analysis showed that the FF score comprised two factors that are differently associated with biomarkers: a) 43.0% of the variance in fatigue, GI symptoms, muscle tension, sadness, and insomnia is explained by hemoglobin, albumin, zinc, β-catenin, and R-spondin-1; and b) 22.3% of the variance in irritability, concentration and memory impairments by increased copper and cations/chloride ratio, and male sex.

CONCLUSION

ESRD patients show high levels of fatigue and physio-somatic symptoms associated with hemodialysis and mediated by dialysis-induced changes in inflammatory pathways, the Wnt/catenin pathway, and copper.

Handgrip Strength Index: A Novel Parameter Which Quantifies Clinical Weakness in People on Haemodialysis

OBJECTIVE

The muscle strength in people on haemodialysis is associated with nutritional status, quality of life, functional independence, and survival. Handgrip Strength (HGS) is simple to measure, but clinical interpretation is limited by the lack of reference ranges for a haemodialysis population. This study aims to define a novel parameter, HGS index, which quantifies degree of clinical weakness specific to a haemodialysis population and to test if this predicts survival.

METHODS

In a cross-sectional single center study HGS was measured in stable participants on haemodialysis. HGS in the well-nourished subgroup, was used to develop a predictive equation for "expected" HGS according to demographic variables. This then was compared to observed HGS resulting in HGS index (%), an individualized parameter indicating weakness due to clinical variables while accounting for demographic contributors to strength. The association between HGS index and survival was explored in all participants.

RESULTS

Among 427 well-nourished individuals on haemodialysis, HGS was strongly associated with demographic variables and predicted in males by the equation: HGS (kg) = 0.38∗height (cm) - 0.31∗age (years) - 18, and in females by the equation: HGS (kg) = 0.25∗height (cm) - 0.11∗age (years) - 16. Among 547 participants (22% with protein energy wasting), lower HGS index was associated with diabetes (P = .004), lower body mass index (BMI) (P = .005), lower albumin (P = .033), and longer dialysis vintage (P = .007). Over a mean observation period of 2.8 years, quintile of HGS index was strongly associated with survival (P = .023), and in a Cox proportional hazards model, the independent predictors of mortality were age, albumin, BMI and HGS index.

CONCLUSION

HGS index, defined as observed relative to expected HGS, is an individualized measure of clinical weakness. It is a novel parameter which independently predicts survival. HGS index improves the detection of clinically relevant muscle weakness in people on haemodialysis, opening up the possibility of earlier, individualized interventions, and improving outcomes in this vulnerable group.

Dialysis recovery time: associated factors and its association with quality of life of hemodialysis patients

Introduction

Post-dialysis fatigue is a common and distressing complaint in patients on hemodialysis (HD). The dialysis recovery time (DRT) is a recent and reliable method of Post-dialysis fatigue assessment. We aimed to identify factors affecting the DRT and its relation with HD patients’ quality of life.

Material and methods

This is a cross-sectional study carried out on end-stage renal disease patients on regular HD. All participants underwent detailed history taking and complete physical examination, and data on dialysis and laboratory investigations were also collected. Patients were asked “How long does it take you to recover from a dialysis session?” to calculate the DRT. We used the Malnutrition-Inflammation Score (MIS) and KDQOL-36 questionnaire to assess patients’ nutritional status and quality of life, respectively.

Results

Two hundred and ten patients were screened and 191, with a median age of 47 years, completed the study. Patients had a median DRT of 300 minutes (range: 0.0–2880.0), with 55% of patients reporting a DRT of > 240 minutes and 22.5% of them reporting a DRT of < 30 minutes. Patients had a median MIS score of 7 (range: 0–17). There was a statistically significant negative relation between the DRT and symptom/ problem list (p < 0.001), effects of kidney disease (p < 0.001), burden of kidney disease (p < 0.001), SF-12 physical composite (p = 0.001), and SF-12 mental composite (p < 0.001) of KDQOL. The results of multivariate analyses showed that dialysate Na (p = 0.003), and the number of missed sessions (p < 0.001) were independently correlated with the DRT.

Conclusions

Decreased dialysate Na, and increased number of missed sessions were predictors of prolonged DRT. Patients with prolonged DRT were associated with poorer quality of life. Further randomized clinical trials are needed to assess strategies to minimize the DRT and, perhaps, enhance clinical outcomes.

Trials registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04727281. First registration date: 27/01/2021.

Musical Breaks—Live Music in a Hemodialysis Setting—A Qualitative Study on Patient, Nurse, and Musician Perspectives

The aim of this hermeneutic-phenomenological study was to explore the perspectives of 12 patients, 17 nurses, and 4 musicians on patient-tailored live music interventions in a hemodialysis setting. Twenty-six semi-structured interviews were collected—17 with patients, 9 with nurses. Furthermore, 18 moderate participation observations, whilst 1 semi-structured group interview with 3 nurses and 3 musicians, and 13 reflective journals from musicians were collected. Within the analysis—based on Ricoeur’s theory of interpretation—two overall themes emerged: (1) the inner space and (2) the participating space, followed by five subthemes: (1a) Entering a calm and enjoyable pause bubble; (1b) Resting in a thought-free state of mind; (1c) Traveling in the past and catching the moment through heartfelt music; (2a) Bringing positive changes into life; (2b) The artistic quality mediating a magnificent and beautiful experience. We found that patient-tailored live music was a meaningful break, influencing mental and physical well-being, time perception, community, work environment, and artistic approach. The artistic quality of the music was essential—together with the musicians’ social awareness, empathy, and ability to interact with the patients—in creating meaningful moments for patients and staff. Overall, the music interventions were a welcome change in a predictable world of stressful routines and repetitive treatments.

Comorbid Depression and Diabetes Are Associated with Impaired Health-Related Quality of Life in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients

Given the increasing prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and its impact on health care, it is important to better understand the multiple factors influencing health-related quality of life (HRQOL), particularly since they have been shown to affect CKD outcomes. Determinants of HRQOL as measured by the validated Kidney Disease Quality of Life questionnaire (KDQOL) and the Patient Health Questionnaire depression screener (PHQ-9) were assessed in a routine CKD patient sample, the Greifswald Approach to Individualized Medicine (GANI_MED) renal cohort (N = 160), including a wide range of self-reported data, sociodemographic and laboratory measures. Compared to the general population, CKD patients had lower HRQOL indices. Dialysis was associated with (1) low levels of physical functioning, (2) increased impairments by symptoms and problems, and (3) more effects and burden of kidney disease. HRQOL is seriously affected in CKD patients. However, impairments were found irrespective of eGFR decline and albuminuria. Rather, the comorbid conditions of depression and diabetes predicted a lower HRQOL (physical component score). Further studies should address whether recognizing and treating depression may not only improve HRQOL but also promote survival and lower hospitalization rates of CKD patients.

The Effect of Intradialytic Range of Motion Exercise on Dialysis Adequacy and Fatigue in Hemodialysis Patients

BACKGROUND

Many hemodialysis patients experience fatigue as a result of not achieving dialysis adequacy.

PURPOSE

This study was designed to determine the effect of intradialytic range-of-motion exercises on dialysis adequacy and fatigue in patients undergoing hemodialysis.

METHODS

In this two-arm experimental study with repeated measures, participants were allocated to treatment ( n = 25, 23 completed) and control ( n = 25, 24 completed) groups using computerized simple random sampling. Participants in the treatment group performed 30-minute weekly intradialytic exercise sessions in addition to receiving standard care, whereas those in the control group received standard care only.

RESULTS

Fatigue and dialysis characteristics were reported at baseline, at the midpoint (end of Week 4), and at the end of Week 8. Whereas mean Kt/V (dialysis adequacy) and urea reduction ratio increased and the fatigue level decreased in the treatment group, these variables did not change in the control group. Significant mean differences in Kt/V, urea reduction ratio, and fatigue between the groups were observed at the end of Week 8.

CONCLUSIONS

Intradialytic range-of-motion exercises are recommended for patients undergoing hemodialysis to increase dialysis adequacy and reduce fatigue.

The critical role of mixed methods research in developing valid and reliable patient-reported outcome measures

Randomised controlled clinical trials provide the gold standard for evidence underpinning clinical guidelines and patient centred care. However, this is only true when they are robustly designed, conducted and reported and then only if they include outcomes that are important to patients and clinicians. Important outcomes include those that measure impact on patient experience, quality of life, overall well-being, and physical, social, cognitive and emotional functioning, all of which require patient reported outcome measures (PROMs). Patient centred care must be underpinned by objective evidence of the effect of interventions on outcomes that are important to patients. Evidence for patient reported outcomes must be supported by valid and reliable PROMs. Importantly the PROM must reflect patient experience of the impact of the intervention on the outcome and enable quantitative evaluation of that impact. The purpose of this paper is to highlight the critical role of mixed methods research in developing PROMs that are valid (measure what they purport to measure), acceptable to those reporting the outcome and able to reliably detect meaningful differences between individuals with different conditions or severity and with time. This can only be achieved through a structured mixed methods program combining qualitative and quantitative research techniques.

Living Well With Kidney Disease and Effective Symptom Management: Consensus Conference Proceedings

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) confers a high burden of uremic symptoms that may be underrecognized, underdiagnosed, and undertreated. Unpleasant symptoms, such as CKD-associated pruritus and emotional/psychological distress, often occur within symptom clusters, and treating 1 symptom may potentially alleviate other symptoms in that cluster. The Living Well with Kidney Disease and Effective Symptom Management Consensus Conference convened health experts and leaders of kidney advocacy groups and kidney networks worldwide to discuss the effects of unpleasant symptoms related to CKD on the health and well-being of those affected, and to consider strategies for optimal symptom management. Optimizing symptom management is a cornerstone of conservative and preservative management which aim to prevent or delay dialysis initiation. In persons with kidney dysfunction requiring dialysis (KDRD), incremental transition to dialysis and home dialysis modalities offer personalized approaches. KDRD is proposed as the preferred term given the negative connotations of "failure" as a kidney descriptor, and the success stories in CKD journeys. Engaging persons with CKD to identify and prioritize their personal values and individual needs must be central to ensure their active participation in CKD management, including KDRD. Person-centered communication and care are required to ensure diversity, equity, and inclusion; education/awareness that considers the health literacy of persons with CKD; and shared decision-making among the person with CKD, care partners, and providers. By putting the needs of people with CKD, including effective symptom management, at the center of their treatment, CKD can be optimally treated in a way that aligns with their goals.

Development of the Warwick Axial Spondyloarthritis faTigue and Energy questionnaire (WASTEd) – a new patient-reported outcome measure

Objective

The aim was to co-produce and test a potential new patient-reported outcome measure (PROM), the Warwick Axial Spondyloarthritis faTigue and Energy questionnaire (WASTEd), providing vital qualitative confirmation of conceptual relevance, clarity and acceptability.

Methods

Informed by measurement theory, we collaborated with patient partners throughout a three-stage, iterative process of PROM development. In stage 1, informed by patient interviews, reviews exploring patients’ fatigue experiences and existing PROMs of fatigue, an initial measurement framework of axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) fatigue and energy and candidate items were defined. In stage 2, the relevance and acceptability of the measurement framework and candidate items were assessed qualitatively by focus group participants. In stage 3, patients participated in pre-testing interviews to assess item comprehensiveness, relevance, acceptability and comprehensibility.

Results

Stage 1 informed the development of an initial five-domain measurement framework with 59 candidate items. In stage 2, five patients and seven health-care professionals participated in four focus groups to derive a 40-item model of fatigue and energy. Collaborative engagement with patient research partners supported refinement of questionnaire structure and content further. Pre-testing with ten patients across two interview rounds in stage 3 produced a four-domain, 30-item long-form questionnaire.

Conclusion

An active collaboration with patients and health-care professionals has supported the co-production of a potential new PROM of axSpA fatigue, underpinned by strong evidence of face and content validity. The WASTEd extends the assessment of fatigue beyond severity, highlighting the importance of symptom frequency, energy and self-management. Future research will involve psychometric evaluation, supporting item reduction, structural refinement and confirmation of PROM validity.

Mobility in Older Adults Receiving Maintenance Hemodialysis: A Qualitative Study

RATIONALE & OBJECTIVE

For older adults, maintaining mobility is a major priority, especially for those with advanced chronic diseases like kidney failure. However, our understanding of the factors affecting mobility in older adults receiving maintenance hemodialysis is limited.

STUDY DESIGN

Descriptive qualitative study.

SETTING & PARTICIPANTS

Using purposive sampling, we recruited (1) persons aged≥60 years receiving maintenance hemodialysis; and (2) care partners (≥18 years) providing regular support to an older adult receiving hemodialysis. During a single in-person home visit, we assessed mobility using the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) and conducted individual one-on-one interviews regarding important personal factors related to mobility.

ANALYTICAL APPROACH

Descriptive statistics were used for demographic and SPPB data. Transcripts underwent thematic coding, informed by the International Classification of Function framework of mobility. We used conceptual content analysis to inductively extract themes and subthemes.

RESULTS

We enrolled 31 older adults receiving hemodialysis (42% female, 68% Black) with a mean age of 73±8 years and mean dialysis vintage of 4.6±3.5 years; their mean SPPB score was 3.6±2.8 points. Among 12 care partners (75% female, 33% Black), the mean age was 54±16 years and mean SPPB score was 10.1±2.4 points. Major themes extracted were (1) mobility represents independence; (2) mobility is precarious; (3) limitations in mobility cause distress; (4) sources of encouragement and motivation are critical; and (5) adaptability is key.

LIMITATIONS

Modest sample from single geographic area.

CONCLUSIONS

For older adults receiving hemodialysis, mobility is severely limited and is often precarious in nature, causing distress. Older adults receiving hemodialysis and their care partners have identified sources of encouragement and motivation for mobility, and cite an adaptable mindset as important. Future studies should conceptualize mobility as a variable condition and build on this outlook of adaptability in the development of interventions.

Functional Status and Engagement in Physical Activity Among Maintenance Dialysis Patients: A Mixed Methods Study

Rationale & Objective

People receiving maintenance hemodialysis (HD) experience significant activity barriers but desire the ability to do more and remain independent. To learn about how to help people who require dialysis stay active, a mixed methods study was designed to assess functional status and explore participants’ lived activity experiences.

Study Design

A concurrent mixed methods design was chosen to increase understanding of the real-life activity experiences of people who require dialysis through in-depth interviews paired with functional status measures. The qualitative findings were fully integrated with the quantitative results to link characteristics associated with different physical activity levels.

Setting & Participants

A purposive sample of 15 adult patients receiving maintenance HD for at least 3 months was recruited from 7 dialysis centers in Newark, New Jersey.

Analytical Approach

Thematic analysis using principles of interpretive phenomenology. Fully integrated quantitative and qualitative data with joint displays and conversion mixed methods.

Results

Participants had a median age of 58 years and were predominantly African American (83%) and men (67%). Three descriptive categories were generated about the participants. They described physical activity as a routine daily activity rather than structured exercise. All participants experienced substantial hardship in addition to chronic kidney disease and expressed that family, friends, and faith were essential to their ability to be active. An overarching theme was generated for participants’ mindsets about physical activity. Within the mindset theme, we discerned 3 subthemes comprising characteristics of participants’ mindsets by levels of engagement in physical activity.

Limitations

While code saturation and trends in functional status measures were achieved with 15 participants, a larger sample size would allow for deeper meaning saturation and statistical inference.

Conclusions

Patients receiving maintenance HD with an engaged mindset exhibited more adaptive coping skills, moved more, wanted to help others, and had a normal body weight habitus. These participants employed adaptive coping skills to carry out daily life activities of importance, highlighting the value of adaptive coping to help overcome the challenges of being physically active.

An intradialytic aerobic exercise program ameliorates frailty and improves dialysis adequacy and quality of life among hemodialysis patients: a randomized controlled trial

Background

Hemodialysis patients with chronic kidney disease exhibit impaired exercise tolerance and functional decline. Despite the life-saving benefits of adequate dialysis, those declines translate into frailty and deteriorating quality of life (QoL). This study evaluated the effects of an intradialytic aerobic exercise program on frailty, dialysis adequacy, and QoL among hemodialysis patients.

Methods

Patients at an university hospital-affiliated hemodialysis center were randomly assigned to an exercise group (n = 18) or a control group (n = 21). The 12-week aerobic exercise program comprised 40 to 70 minutes of ergometer cycling 3 times/wk and a single education session. The control group completed only the education session. Outcomes were assessed at the time of enrollment, week 4, week 8, and week 12 using Fried’s frailty phenotype measures (gait speed, grip strength, vitality, body mass index, and physical activity), the short physical performance battery (SPPB), Kt/V urea, and the Short Form-36 questionnaire.

Results

There were significant interactions between groups and follow-up times in the frailty score (p < 0.001), gait speed (p < 0.001), SPPB (p < 0.001), and mental QoL (p = 0.03). The intention-to-treat and per-protocol analyses revealed that the exercise group exhibited significant improvements in frailty score (p < 0.001), gait speed (p < 0.001), grip strength (p < 0.001), exhaustion (p = 0.02), SPPB (p = 0.01), dialysis adequacy (p = 0.01), and physical QoL (p = 0.003).

Conclusion

An intradialytic aerobic exercise program could be a safe, feasible, and appropriate additional strategy to routine care among hemodialysis patients for improvements in frailty, dialysis adequacy, and QoL.

Qualitative interview study exploring the patient experience of living with axial spondyloarthritis and fatigue: difficult, demanding and draining

OBJECTIVE

To explore patients' lived experiences of axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) and fatigue.

DESIGN

Interpretative phenomenological analysis (lived experience) was used as the study design. Analysis drew together codes with similar meaning to create superordinate and subordinate themes.

SETTING

Rheumatology departments in three National Health Service Foundation Trusts in the north, midlands and south of England.

PARTICIPANTS

A purposive sample of seventeen axSpA patients were recruited. The age range was 22-72 years (median age 46), nine were male and eight, female.

RESULTS

A central concept of achieving balance was identified as the active process of integrating axSpA symptoms and fatigue into daily life, working with and not against their condition to lead a fulfilled life. This was conveyed through three superordinate themes: struggling to find energy, engaging in everyday life and persevering through difficulties. Struggling to find energy was the challenge of retaining enough stamina to do things in daily life. Engaging in everyday life highlighted dedication to being active and organised, learning through experience and acceptance of a changed way of being. Persevering through difficulties identified the physical and emotional effort required to keep moving forward and the importance of feeling supported.

CONCLUSION

Achieving balance through finding energy, engaging and persevering everyday was fundamental to having the best possible life. The experience of energy emerged as a distinct but related component of fatigue. However, while energy could be maintained or replenished, fatigue was more difficult to overcome and required greater effort. Energy may be a useful indicator of an individual's current state and ability to sustain activities that supports their well-being, such as exercise. Awareness of the elements of achieving balance in axSpA may enable patients and clinicians to work together to tailor treatments to individual patient need.

A pilot randomised controlled trial of an energy management programme for adults on maintenance haemodialysis: the fatigue-HD study

BACKGROUND

Identifying interventions to reduce fatigue and improve life participation are top research priorities of people on maintenance haemodialysis.

OBJECTIVE

Our primary objective was to explore the feasibility of conducting a randomised controlled trial of an energy management programme for people on maintenance haemodialysis.

DESIGN

Parallel-arm, 1:1, blinded, pilot randomised controlled trial.

PARTICIPANTS

Participants were recruited from 6 dialysis units in Calgary, Canada. Eligible patients were on maintenance haemodialysis, clinically stable and reported disabling fatigue on the Fatigue Severity Scale items 5, 7, 8 and 9.

RANDOMISATION

Participants were randomised using a computer-generated random number sequence according to permuted blocked randomisation, stratified by dialysis unit.

BLINDING

Participants were blinded to treatment allocation.

INTERVENTIONS

Participants received an attention control (general disease self-management education) or the Personal Energy Planning (PEP) programme, a tailored, web-supported 7-9 weeks energy management programme.

OUTCOMES

Eligibility, recruitment and attrition rates were recorded, and standardised intervention effects (Hedge's G) were calculated for fatigue and life participation questionnaires at one1-week postintervention and 12-week postintervention.

RESULTS

159 of 253 screened patients were eligible to be approached. 42 (26%) had fatigue, were interested and consented to participate, of whom 30 met eligibility criteria and were randomised (mean age 62.4 years (±14.7), 60% male). 22 enrolled participants (73%) completed all study procedures. Medium-sized intervention effects were observed on the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM)-Performance Scale, Global Life Participation Scale and Global Life Participation Satisfaction Scale at 1-week postintervention follow-up, compared with control. At 12-week follow-up, large and very large intervention effects were observed on the COPM-Performance Scale and COPM-Satisfaction Scale, respectively.

CONCLUSION

It is feasible to enrol and follow patients on haemodialysis in a randomised controlled trial of an energy management intervention. As the intervention was associated with improved life participation on some measures, a larger trial is justified.

Electronic Patient-Reported Outcomes in Nephrology: Focus on Hemodialysis

The success of hemodialysis (HD) treatments has been evaluated using objective measures of analytical parameters, or machine-measured parameters, despite having available validated instruments that assess patient perspective. There is an emerging interest regarding the use and relevance of patient-related outcomes (PROs). Electronic PROs (ePROs) involve the use of electronic technology, provide rapid access to this information, and are becoming more widely used in clinical trials and studies to evaluate efficacy and safety. Despite the scarce literature, this review suggests that ePROs are useful in providing a more customized and multidimensional approach to patient management and in making better clinical decisions in relevant aspects such as vascular access, duration and frequency of dialysis sessions, treatment of anemia, mental health, fatigue, and quality of life. The purpose of this review is to raise interest in the systematic use of ePROs in HD and to promote the development of studies in this field, which can respond to the gaps in knowledge and contribute to the implementation of the use of ePROs through new technologies, helping to improve the quality of health care.

Intradialytic hypotension and objectively measured physical activity among patients on hemodialysis

BACKGROUND

Intradialytic hypotension is related to patient-reported outcomes such as post-dialysis fatigue, but its impact on physical activity has not been fully studied. We aimed to examine the relationship between intradialytic blood pressure (BP) and objectively measured physical activity.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, 192 hemodialysis patients underwent 4 weeks of physical activity measurement using triaxial accelerometers to measure step counts and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA). Intradialytic BP parameters (pre-dialysis BP, post-dialysis BP, nadir BP, and fall in BP) were measured during all dialysis sessions. Mixed-effects linear regression models were used to analyze associations between intradialytic BP parameters and physical activity (1) after dialysis sessions on dialysis days and (2) on the following non-dialysis days.

RESULTS

The mean age of the patients was 71 years, and 47% had diabetes mellitus. Valid physical activity data were obtained in a total of 1938 dialysis days and 2629 non dialysis days. Lower nadir diastolic BP was significantly associated with lower step counts and shorter moderate-to-vigorous physical activity not only on dialysis days but also on the following non-dialysis days. Nadir diastolic BP showed a higher discrimination capacity for physical inactivity, defined as a step count < 4000 on non-dialysis days, than the other BP parameters. The optimal cutoff point of nadir diastolic BP for discriminating physical inactivity was 68 mmHg; its sensitivity and specificity were 66% and 67%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Lower nadir diastolic BP was strongly associated with lower physical activity on both dialysis and non-dialysis days. Nadir diastolic BP may be a predictor for physical inactivity.

Exercise training for adults undergoing maintenance dialysis

BACKGROUND

Dialysis treatments weigh heavily on patients' physical and psychosocial health. Multiple studies have assessed the potential for exercise training to improve outcomes in adults undergoing dialysis. However, uncertainties exist in its relevance and sustainable benefits for patient-important outcomes. This is an update of a review first published in 2011.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the benefits and safety of regular structured exercise training in adults undergoing dialysis on patient-important outcomes including death, cardiovascular events, fatigue, functional capacity, pain, and depression. We also aimed to define the optimal prescription of exercise in adults undergoing dialysis.

SEARCH METHODS

In this update, we conducted a systematic search of the Cochrane Kidney and Transplant Register of Studies up to 23 December 2020. The Register includes studies identified from CENTRAL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, the International Clinical Trials Register (ICTRP) Search Portal and ClinicalTrials.gov as well as kidney-related journals and the proceedings of major kidney conferences.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs of any structured exercise programs of eight weeks or more in adults undergoing maintenance dialysis compared to no exercise or sham exercise.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently assessed the search results for eligibility, extracted the data and assessed the risk of bias using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Whenever appropriate, we performed random-effects meta-analyses of the mean difference in outcomes. The primary outcomes were death (any cause), cardiovascular events and fatigue. Secondary outcomes were health-related quality of life (HRQoL), depression, pain, functional capacity, blood pressure, adherence to the exercise program, and intervention-related adverse events.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified 89 studies involving 4291 randomised participants, of which 77 studies (3846 participants) contributed to the meta-analyses. Seven studies included adults undergoing peritoneal dialysis. Fifty-six studies reported aerobic exercise interventions, 21 resistance exercise interventions and 19 combined aerobic and resistance training within the same study arm. The interventions lasted from eight weeks to two years and most often took place thrice weekly during dialysis treatments. A single study reported death and no study reported long-term cardiovascular events. Five studies directly assessed fatigue, 46 reported HRQoL and 16 reported fatigue or pain through their assessment of HRQoL. Thirty-five studies assessed functional capacity, and 21 reported resting peripheral blood pressure. Twelve studies reported adherence to exercise sessions, and nine reported exercise-related adverse events. Overall, the quality of the included studies was low and blinding of the participants was generally not feasible due to the nature of the intervention. Exercise had uncertain effects on death, cardiovascular events, and the mental component of HRQoL due to the very low certainty of evidence. Compared with sham or no exercise, exercise training for two to 12 months may improve fatigue in adults undergoing dialysis, however, a meta-analysis could not be conducted. Any exercise training for two to 12 months may improve the physical component of HRQoL (17 studies, 656 participants: MD 4.12, 95% CI 1.88 to 6.37 points on 100 points-scale; I² = 49%; low certainty evidence). Any exercise training for two to 12 months probably improves depressive symptoms (10 studies, 441 participants: SMD -0.65, 95% CI -1.07 to -0.22; I² = 77%; moderate certainty evidence) and the magnitude of the effect may be greater when maintaining the exercise beyond four months (6 studies, 311 participants: SMD -0.30, 95% CI 0.14 to -0.74; I² = 71%). Any exercise training for three to 12 months may improve pain (15 studies, 872 participants: MD 5.28 95% CI -0.12 to 10.69 points on 100 points-scale; I² = 63%: low certainty evidence) however, the 95% CI indicates that exercise training may make little or no difference in the level of pain. Any exercise training for two to six months probably improves functional capacity as it increased the distance reached during six minutes of walking (19 studies, 827 participants: MD 49.91 metres, 95% CI 37.22 to 62.59; I² = 34%; moderate certainty evidence) and the number of sit-to-stand cycles performed in 30 seconds (MD 2.33 cycles, 95% CI 1.71 to 2.96; moderate certainty evidence). There was insufficient evidence to assess the safety of exercise training for adults undergoing maintenance dialysis. The results were similar for aerobic exercise, resistance exercise, and a combination of both aerobic and resistance exercise.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

It is uncertain whether exercise training improves death, cardiovascular events, or the mental component of HRQoL in adults undergoing maintenance dialysis. Exercise training probably improves depressive symptoms, particularly when the intervention is maintained beyond four months. Exercise training is also likely to improve functional capacity. Low certainty evidence suggested that exercise training may improve fatigue, the physical component of quality of life, and pain. The safety of exercise training for adults undergoing dialysis remains uncertain.

Social support as a mediator of the relationship between forgiveness and post-traumatic growth in hemodialysis patients: A structural equation modeling approach

BACKGROUND

Post-traumatic growth (PTG) refers to the positive psychological changes experienced with individuals after struggling with highly challenging life circumstances. Forgiveness can facilitate positive outcomes such as reduced distress, anxiety, and depression. Many studies have tested the relationships among forgiveness, social support, and PTG; however, a mechanism of social support has not been completely explored in hemodialysis patients.

OBJECTIVE

To test the relationship between forgiveness and post-traumatic growth and verify the mediating factor of social support on the relationship between forgiveness and PTG in hemodialysis patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In a descriptive cross-sectional study using convenience sampling from March to May 2021, 497 hemodialysis patients from nine hospitals filled out the Perceived Social Support Scale (PSSS), Heartland Forgiveness Scale (HFS), Post-traumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI), and general information. Data were analyzed using SPSS, and structural equation modeling was used to explore the relationships among forgiveness, social support, and PTG.

RESULTS

Forgiveness was significantly positively associated with PTG (P < 0.01). The proposed model provided a good fit to the data. Social support was found to play a partial mediating role between forgiveness and PTG (a*b = 0.122, BCa 95% CI: 0.078∼0.181).

CONCLUSION

The results imply that forgiveness significantly directly and indirectly is related to PTG. Forgiveness in hemodialysis patients should be detected and effectively managed to ameliorate positive effects on PTG. It is necessary for nurses to consider implementing forgiveness interventions with an emphasis on building social support strategies to help hemodialysis patients enhance their PTG.

Hemodialysis and Peritoneal Dialysis Patients’ Problems: Patients’ Perspective

Background: End-stage renal disease (ESRD) can be fatal without hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, or kidney transplantation. Hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis participants confront many adverse effects due to both the disease course and the treatment program. Objectives: This study was done to analyze hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis patients’ problems. Methods: A qualitative exploratory study was used, and a purposeful sample of 55 hemodialysis and 47 peritoneal dialysis patients were interviewed. The data were collected through interviews. Initially, 12 open-ended questions were developed and used to stimulate discussions in interview sessions. Directed content analysis was used for the analysis of the transcribed data. After giving a code to each line or incidence, codes were then compared for similarity and differences, merged, and categorized. Results: Themes of fatigue, diminished ability, sleeplessness, wasting time, body impairments, travel, and free-time activities limitations, low blood pressure, displeasure and gratification with hemodialysis if peritoneal dialysis patients compliant of peritoneal catheter problems, peritoneal dialysis difficulties and limitations, and gratification with peritoneal dialysis emerged. Conclusions: Hemodialysis problems and patients' dependency on the hemodialysis machine and ward are at a high level, and patients’ gratification is at a low level. Peritoneal dialysis patients, who do not get the infection, are satisfied with the dialysis method, and the patients' limitations and problems are fewer, and they are relaxed and have more freedom.

Is malnutrition a determining factor of health-related quality of life in hemodialysis patients? A cross-sectional design examining relationships with a comprehensive assessment of nutritional status

PURPOSE

To identify relationships between health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and nutritional status in hemodialysis (HD) patients.

METHOD

Secondary data from a cross-sectional survey was utilized. HRQOL was assessed for 379 HD patients using the generic Short Form 36 (SF-36) and disease-specific Kidney-Disease Quality of Life-36 (KDQOL-36). Malnutrition was indicated by malnutrition inflammation score (MIS) ≥ 5, and presence of protein-energy wasting (PEW). The individual nutritional parameters included the domains of physical status, serum biomarkers, and dietary intake. Multivariate associations were assessed using the general linear model.

RESULTS

MIS ≥ 5 was negatively associated with SF-36 scores of physical functioning (MIS < 5 = 73.4 ± 8.0 SE vs MIS ≥ 5 = 64.6 ± 7.7 SE, P < 0.001), role-limitation-physical (MIS < 5 = 65.3 ± 14.3 SE vs MIS ≥ 5 = 52.9 ± 14.0 SE, P = 0.006), general health (MIS < 5 = 53.7 ± 7.5 SE vs MIS ≥ 5 = 47.0 ± 7.1 SE, P = 0.003), and PCS-36 (MIS < 5 = 40.5 ± 3.3 SE vs MIS ≥ 5 = 35.9 ± 3.1 SE, P < 0.001); and KDQOL-36 score of symptoms/problems (MIS < 5 = 78.9 ± 5.6 SE vs MIS ≥ 5 = 74.8 ± 5.4 SE, P = 0.022), but not with PEW by any tool. Of individual nutritional parameters, underweight (68.1 ± 5.4 SE, P = 0.031), normal weight (63.8 ± 2.8 SE, P = 0.023), and overweight (64.3 ± 2.9 SE, P = 0.003) patients had significantly higher physical functioning scores compared to obese patients (44.8 ± 5.5 SE). Serum albumin levels were positively associated with physical functioning (P = 0.041) score. HGS was also positively associated with physical functioning (P = 0.036), and vitality (P = 0.041) scores. Greater dietary phosphorus intakes were significantly associated with lower scores for role limitation-physical (P = 0.008), bodily pain (P = 0.043), and PCS-36 (P = 0.024).

CONCLUSION

Malnutrition diagnosis by MIS, but not PEW, indicated associations with HRQOL in HD patients. Individual nutritional parameters that related to higher HRQOL were BMI < 30 kg/m², better dietary phosphorus control, greater muscle strength and higher visceral protein pool.

Patient-reported outcome measures in hemodialysis patients: results of the first multicenter cross-sectional ePROMs study in France

Background

Kidney failure with replacement therapy and hemodialysis are associated with a decrease in quality of life (QOL). Self-reported QOL symptoms are not always prioritized by the medical team, potentially leading to conflicting priorities with patients. Electronic patient-reported outcome measures (ePROMs) allow physicians to better identify these symptoms. The objective was to describe the prevalence of symptoms self-reported by hemodialysis (HD) patients.

Methods

A multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted in three HD centers. Patients were included if they were 18 years old or over treated with HD for at least 3 months in a center. Data were collected by the patient via a self-administered ePROMs questionnaire. Data included patient characteristics, post-dialysis fatigue and intensity, recovery time after a session, perceived stress, impaired sleep the day before the dialysis session, current state of health and the change from the past year. A multivariate analysis was conducted to identify relations between symptoms.

Results

In total, we included 173 patients with a mean age of 66.2 years, a mean ± SD hemodialysis duration of 48.9 ± 58.02 months. The prevalence of fatigue was 72%. 66% had a high level of stress (level B or C). Recovery time was more than 6 h after a HD session for 25% of patients and 78% declared they had a better or unchanged health status than the previous year. Sleep disturbance was associated with cardiovascular comorbidities (OR 5.08 [95% CI, 1.56 to 16.59], p = 0.007).

Conclusions

Fatigue and stress were the main symptoms reported by HD patients. The patient’s care teams should better consider these symptoms.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12882-021-02551-3.

Training clinicians in a problem-solving fatigue programme for patients receiving maintenance haemodialysis

BACKGROUND

Personal Energy Planning is a problem-solving based programme that guides people receiving maintenance haemodialysis treatment to use energy management strategies to address life participation challenges. The feasibility of training dialysis clinicians to become Personal Energy Planning coaches (i.e., programme administrators) is currently unknown.

OBJECTIVES

To explore the feasibility of training dialysis clinicians to administer the Personal Energy Planning programme.

DESIGN

Feasibility study involving an adherence evaluation of two trained dialysis clinician coaches' problem-solving facilitation skills, and one qualitative interview with each coach.

PARTICIPANTS

Two Personal Energy Planning coaches with nursing backgrounds who administered the programme to 10 patients receiving maintenance haemodialysis treatment over a total of 34 sessions.

APPROACH

Audio recordings of one session per treatment recipient (n = 10) were evaluated using an established treatment adherence checklist. The proportion of treatment sessions where the item was observed by two adherence raters was calculated. In addition, coaches were interviewed about their experiences learning and administering the programme; interviews were analysed using inductive thematic analysis.

FINDINGS

Some core facilitation skills (e.g., patient-centred goal setting and analysis of performance breakdowns) were consistently used; however, other facilitation skills (e.g., guided discovery and global problem-solving strategy) were not regularly implemented. The coaches discussed challenges (e.g., supporting patient problem-solving and fluctuating patient health) with administering the intervention. Certain training resources (e.g., coaching handbook and expert consultation) were identified as valuable to their learning.

CONCLUSIONS

With modifications to training materials, it might be feasible to train dialysis clinicians to administer Personal Energy Planning with people receiving maintenance haemodialysis treatment.

Barriers to and Facilitators of Sustained Employment: A Qualitative Study of Experiences in Dutch Patients With CKD

RATIONALE & OBJECTIVE

Although patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are at risk for work disability and loss of employment, not all experience work disruption. We aimed to describe the barriers to and facilitators of sustained employment experienced by Dutch patients with CKD.

STUDY DESIGN

Qualitative study using semistructured interviews.

SETTING & PARTICIPANTS

27 patients with CKD glomerular filtration rate categories 3b-5 (G3b-G5) from 4 nephrology outpatient clinics in The Netherlands.

ANALYTICAL APPROACH

Content analyses with constant comparison of interview data based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health framework.

RESULTS

Participants were 6 patients with CKD G3b-G4, 8 patients receiving maintenance dialysis, and 13 patients with functioning kidney transplants. We identified health-related barriers (symptoms, physical toll of dialysis/transplantation, limited work capacity) and facilitators (few physical symptoms, successful posttransplantation recovery, absence of comorbidities, good physical condition), personal barriers (psychological impact, limited work experience) and facilitators (positive disposition, job satisfaction, work attitude, person-job fit), and environmental barriers and facilitators. Environmental barriers were related to nephrology care (waiting time, use of a hemodialysis catheter) and work context (reorganization, temporary contract, working hours, physical demands); environmental facilitators were related to nephrology care (personalized dialysis, preemptive transplant), work context (large employer, social climate, job requiring mental rather than physical labor, flexible working hours, adjustment of work tasks, reduced hours, remote working, support at work, peritoneal dialysis exchange facility), and support at home. Occupational health services and social security could be barriers or facilitators.

LIMITATIONS

The study sample of Dutch patients may limit the transferability of these findings to other countries.

CONCLUSIONS

The wide range of barriers and facilitators in all International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health components suggests great diversity among patients and their circumstances. These findings underline the importance of personalized nephrology and occupational health care as well as the importance of individually tailored workplace accommodations to promote sustained employment for patients with CKD.

Breathing-based leg exercises during hemodialysis improve quality of life: A randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of a 12-week breathing-based leg exercises program on quality of life under stabilizing heart rate variability and reducing fatigue in regular hemodialysis patients.

DESIGN

Randomized controlled trial.

SETTING

A 94-bed hemodialysis department at a medical center in northern Taiwan.

PARTICIPANTS

Eighty-six patients with end-stage renal disease undergoing hemodialysis were recruited and randomly assigned to the ExBr or control groups.

INTERVENTIONS

The breathing-based leg exercises program comprised abdominal breathing and low-intensity leg exercise, including leg lifts, quadriceps femoris contraction and knee flexion, and lasted for 15 minutes at one time, three times a week for 12 weeks.

MAIN MEASURE

Data was collected by using the World Health Organization quality of life assessment-brief, physiological signal recorder for heart rate variability and hemodialysis-related fatigue scale at baseline and on Week 4, Week 8, and Week 12.

RESULTS

Average (standard deviation) age was 53.70 (10.04) years in the ExBr group and 61.19 (10.19) years in the control group. The linear mixed model with adjusted age, creatinine, heart rate variability and fatigue revealed that the ExBr group had significantly higher quality of life than did the control group (P = 0.01), especially on Week 12 (P = 0.04). Fatigue was significantly correlated with quality of life (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

This study supported the benefits of the continued breathing-based leg exercises during hemodialysis for at least 12 weeks, which improved the quality of life of patients with end-stage renal disease and did not affect the stability of their vital signs.

Fatigue characteristics on dialysis and non-dialysis days in patients with chronic kidney failure on maintenance hemodialysis

BACKGROUND

Fatigue is prevalent in hemodialysis patients who for survival follow a strict dialysis treatment regimen - dialysis and non-dialysis days. As a result, the daily activities, symptom burden, and clinical outcomes of hemodialysis patients vary significantly between dialysis and non-dialysis days. Fatigue is one of the most reported debilitating symptoms by hemodialysis patients with profound negative impact on their quality of life. Prior studies assessed fatigue during the preceding 7 or 30 days and did not discriminate fatigue characteristics between dialysis and non-dialysis days. We aimed to characterize and compare fatigue severity and fatigue interference with daily activities between dialysis and non-dialysis days.

METHODS

Hemodialysis patients self-reported fatigue on consecutive dialysis and non-dialysis days using the 9-item Brief Fatigue Inventory. The differences in fatigue characteristics between dialysis and non-dialysis days were analyzed using one-way ANCOVA.

RESULTS

Global fatigue burden was worse on a dialysis day compared to a non-dialysis day (P for all < 0.001). Age and education were associated with fatigue, but hemodialysis-related variables were not. A significant inverse association of physical activity with fatigue severity observed on non-dialysis day; there was also a negative association between the normalized protein catabolic rate and fatigue severity on both dialysis and non-dialysis days. The positive association of depression with fatigue severity and fatigue interference were consistent on both dialysis and non-dialysis days. None of these factors, however, explained differences in fatigue characteristics between dialysis and non-dialysis days.

CONCLUSIONS

Fatigue, measured in severity and interference, was more pronounced on a dialysis day relative to a non-dialysis day. These differences were not explained by age, sex, education, hemodialysis-related variables, habitual exercise, nutritional status, and or depression. The quantitative measures of fatigue characteristics may facilitate future interventional trials design and better fatigue management for hemodialysis patients.

The Association Between Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate and Hospitalization for Fatigue: A Population-Based Cohort Study

Background:

Fatigue is a pervasive symptom among patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) that is associated with several adverse outcomes, but the incidence of hospitalization for fatigue is unknown.

Objective:

To explore the association between estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and incidence of hospitalization for fatigue.

Design:

Population-based retrospective cohort study using a provincial administrative dataset.

Setting:

Alberta, Canada.

Patients:

People above age 18 who had at least 1 outpatient serum creatinine measurement taken in Alberta between January 1, 2009, and December 31, 2016.

Measurements:

The first outpatient serum creatinine was used to estimate GFR. Hospitalization for fatigue was identified using International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10) code R53.x.

Methods:

Patients were stratified by CKD category based on their index eGFR. We used negative binomial regression to determine if there was an increased incidence of hospitalization for fatigue by declining kidney function (reference eGFR ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73m²). Estimates were stratified by age, and adjusted for age, sex, socioeconomic status, and comorbidity.

Results:

The study cohort consisted of 2 823 270 adults, with a mean age of 46.1 years and median follow-up duration of 6.0 years; 5 422 hospitalizations for fatigue occurred over 14 703 914 person-years of follow-up. Adjusted rates of hospitalization for fatigue increased with decreasing kidney function, across all age strata. The highest rates were seen in adults on dialysis (adjusted incident rate ratios 24.47, 6.66, and 3.13 for those aged 18 to 64, 65 to 74, and 75+, respectively, compared with eGFR ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73m²).

Limitations:

Fatigue hospitalization codes have not been validated; reference group limited to adults with at least 1 outpatient serum creatinine measurement; remaining potential for residual confounding.

Conclusions:

Declining kidney function was associated with increased incidence of hospitalization for fatigue. Further research into ways to address fatigue in the CKD population is warranted.

Trial Registration:

Not applicable (not a clinical trial).

Identifying Information Needs of Patients With IgA Nephropathy Using an Innovative Social Media-stepped Analytical Approach

Introduction

The number of people with kidney disease using social media to search for medical information and peer support is increasing. IgA nephropathy (IgAN) predominantly affects young adults, demographically the biggest users of social media. This article presents an innovative analysis of social media interactions to identify unmet education and information needs of patients with IgAN.

Methods

Following ethical approval for the study, the IgAN Support UK Facebook group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/915274415226674) granted us permission to anonymously collect and analyze 1959 posts and comments from 498 group users. An initial patient focus group and quantitative word-frequency analysis created an initial categorization matrix that was iteratively refined after serial analyses of the social media database to generate a final categorization matrix of needs. We evaluated narrative data relating to each identified category to define patient narratives relating to each area.

Results

A large number of information gaps and unanswered questions were identified relating to the following: diet, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and patient comorbidities. Patient–clinician communication and the presentation of information were also drawn out as cross-cutting issues. These themes differed significantly from those identified from the traditional patient focus group, highlighting the value of this novel method for interrogating social media data to understand unmet patient needs.

Conclusion

Social media data are untapped and valuable resources that can be used to better understand patient information gaps, leading to the generation of targeted materials to address unmet educational needs. This innovative approach could be replicated across other health conditions.