Qualidade de vida de pacientes com insuficiência renal crônica em uma unidade dialítica na cidade de Pelotas, RS

Abstract

Objective: Evaluate the quality of life of patients with chronic kidney disease on hemodialysis and identify possible associations with clinical and sociodemographic variables. Method: Cross-sectional study with 68 patients with chronic renal disease on hemodialysis at the Hospital Universitário São Francisco de Paula, in Pelotas, RS. For quality of life evaluation, two instruments were used: a generic (WHOQOL-bref) and a specific (KDQOL-SF). Results: From the studied patients, 56% were men, 53% were older than 60 years and 62% had no steady partner. The mean time on hemodialysis was 26.7 months and median 14.5 months. The physical and psychological domains were more affected when compared to social and environmental domains, which had more satisfactory results (WHOQOL-bref). Concerning to the dimensions of the KDQOL-SF, the areas that obtained the highest scores were: hemodialysis staff encouragement, symptoms / problems, quality of social interaction, cognitive function and social support. The dimensions that presented more prejudice were associated with the professional role, burden of kidney disease, emotional function and general health perception. Conclusion: The patients with chronic kidney disease in hemodialysis during the treatment have significant changes in their quality of life. The knowledge of the most affected areas by the disease may assist in defining ways of serving and promoting the wellbeing of patient