Prevalence and Impact of Non-Adherence to Fluid and Dietary Restrictions on Health Outcomes in Hemodialysis Patients

Background: Hemodialysis is a popular therapeutic option for end-stage renal illness, and chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a worldwide public health concern. For the best results after hemodialysis, rigorous adherence to dietary and fluid restrictions is necessary.While non-adherence to these restrictions is common and associated with negative health outcomes, the frequency of non-adherence among hemodialysis patients remains poorly understood. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine the frequency of dietary and fluid restriction non-adherence among hemodialysis patients and investigate the association between this behavior and specific demographic characteristics and health outcomes. Methods: Fifty hemodialysis patients who were chosen by convenience sampling participated in a descriptive study in a dialysis facility of UPUMS Saifai, Etawah. Along with demographic and health-related outcome variables, data were gathered using a standardized instrument called the Dietary and Fluid Adherence Questionnaire, or DDFQ. The prevalence and correlations between non-adherence, demographics, and health outcomes were evaluated by statistical analysis. Results: According to the study, 78% of patients did not follow hydration and 60% of patients did not follow dietary limitations. Non-adherence and demographic factors including age and marital status were shown to be significantly correlated (p<0.001). Significant correlations were seen between nonadherence and health-related outcomes, including interdialytic weight increase, fatigue, blood pressure, serum creatinine, and calcium levels (p<0.001), whereas muscle cramps, BUN, and sodium levels were significant (p<0.01). The association between potassium levels and non-adherence was moderately significant (p>0.05). Conclusion: Among hemodialysis patients, non-adherence to dietary and hydration restrictions is startlingly common and linked to both negative health outcomes and demographic characteristics. This emphasizes the necessity of focused efforts to increase adherence and enhance these patients' health and quality of life.