KNOWLEDGE ASSESSMENT OF HOME SELF-CARE PRACTICES IN HEMODIALYSIS PATIENTS: A DESCRIPTIVE STUDY FROM SUDAN

Abstract Background: Hemodialysis is a therapy that filters waste, removes excess fluid, and balances electrolytes (sodium, potassium, bicarbonate, chloride, calcium, magnesium, and phosphate) when the kidneys are in a state of renal failure. Home self-care is essential for hemodialysis patients, as it constitutes a significant part of their overall care. Aim: This study was conducted to assess knowledge about home self-care among hemodialysis patients. Methodology: This descriptive hospital-based study was conducted at Omdurman Teaching Hospital in Sudan. The target population included hemodialysis patients visiting the center to receive their treatments (n=100). A structured, self-administered, closed-ended questionnaire was used to collect data from the study subjects. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and presented in the form of frequencies and percentages. Results: The study revealed that half of the participants had low knowledge about therapeutic nutrition, and more than half of the patients consumed fluids freely. Conclusion: The study concluded that approximately half of the patients were over 45 years old, with a majority being male. Most patients underwent regular hemodialysis twice a week for a duration of four hours. The study recommends the implementation of health education programs to enhance self-care among dialysis patients, enabling them to take a more active role in their care and supporting them in performing various tasks related to their dialysis according to their individual abilities.