Assessment of Knowledge and Self-Reported Practices Regarding Self-Care of Arteriovenous (AV) Fistula among Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis

Introduction: End-stage renal disease (ESRD) occurs when chronic kidney disease reaches an advanced state. Among the available treatments for ESRD, hemodialysis is the most utilized treatment. To facilitate hemodialysis, an Arteriovenous (AV) fistula is created by connecting the artery to a vein. Aim: The present study aimed to assess the knowledge and practice regarding self-care of AV fistula among patients undergoing hemodialysis. Methods: A descriptive research study was conducted among 34 patients undergoing hemodialysis in Apollo Hospital Noida by non-probability purposive sampling technique. An interview guide that consists of semistructured items was used to collect demographic and clinical data. Structured multiple-choice items were used to assess knowledge and practice respectively. Results: The study findings revealed that the percentage for moderate knowledge was 55.88% and inadequate knowledge was 44.11%. The percentage of moderate practice was 97.06% and poor practice was 2.94%. Conclusion: The study's findings indicated that the majority of patients had sufficient expertise to take care of their AV fistulas on their own. The investigator gained knowledge from the study's findings concerning how patients receiving hemodialysis know and use self-care for AVF.