Influence of Demographic Characteristics on Trait Emotional Intelligence and Treatment Adherence Among Patients on Hemodialysis

Introduction Trait emotional intelligence refers to individuals' capability to precisely identify and interpret emotions, use emotional information to support cognitive processes, and regulate emotional states effectively. The aim of the study was to explore the influence of demographic characteristics on emotional intelligence and treatment adherence in individuals undergoing hemodialysis. Methods In this study, a total of 468 patients on hemodialysis completed these questionnaires: i) Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire Short Form (TEIQue-SF), ii) GR-Simplified Medication Adherence Questionnaire-Hemodialysis (GR-SMAQ-HD), and iii) A questionnaire about demographic and clinical characteristics. Spearman's correlation coefficients were utilized to investigate the association between two continuous variables. Multiple linear regression analysis was utilized with the dependent variables, the dimensions of GR-SMAQ-HD and TEIQue-SF scale. Results Kidney transplant candidates had high overall emotional intelligence (p=0.007), while patients who were women demonstrated low overall emotional intelligence (p=0.005). Patients with a fistula or graft demonstrated enhanced self-control (p=0.022, p=0.026, respectively) and increased well-being (p=0.024). Older age was associated with high overall treatment adherence (p<0.001), while patients living alone and those with comorbidities demonstrated low levels of overall treatment adherence (p=0.007 and p=0.049, respectively). Conclusions Educational and psychosocial programs designed to improve emotional intelligence can be incorporated into hemodialysis care, in order to foster greater treatment adherence among patients on hemodialysis.