The relationship between knowledge, attitude, and practice against the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in hemodialysis patients: A cross-sectional study

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is considered a significant risk factor for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Increased awareness and knowledge can lead to improved performance and adoption of preventive behaviors against COVID-19. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the relationship between knowledge, attitude, and preventive practices related to COVID-19 among hemodialysis patients referred to dialysis centers affiliated with Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran. The sample consisted of 240 participants, selected through a stratified random sampling method. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire on knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) and analyzed with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20, employing both descriptive (mean, standard deviation [SD], and tables) and inferential statistics (Pearson correlation coefficient, analysis of variance, and independent t-test). The results indicated that patients had a relatively high level of knowledge (24.79 [SD=10.10]), attitude (51.50 [SD=6.81]), and practice (52.66 [SD=9.42]) regarding COVID-19 prevention. A significant positive correlation was observed between knowledge and attitude, as well as patients' preventive practices (P<0.010). Based on these findings, identifying patient needs and providing targeted education can lead to improved behaviors and increased self-efficacy in hemodialysis patients.