Abstract:
Introduction and Objective - Physical and psychological consequences have an impact on quality
of life (QOL) of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). This study was aimed to assess the
severity of consequences of CKD, impact of consequences on QOL and evaluate the level of
depression among patients undergoing dialysis treatment.
Methodology - This cross-sectional study was performed among 80 CKD patients at Dialysis Unit,
Teaching Hospital Karapitiya. Interviewer administered questionnaire including WHO-BREF QOL questionnaire and PHQ-9 Depression Scale was used.
Results – Mean age(±SD) of the sample was 48(±11.50)years and 70% was male. Among
participants, 56% were undergoing HD for twice a week and 44% for once a week. Among
participants, 80% of them had moderate impact on sexual life; 76% and 56% were highly bothered
about changes in their personal appearance and dry itchy skin due to consequences of CKD. 54%
of Participant moderately bothered by fluid and dietary restrictions whereas 45% extremely
bothered by loss of appetite. Consequences of CKD significantly affected on physical and
psychological domains of QOL (p<0.01). Almost all the study participants had depression at any
level (mild - 60%, moderate - 37%, severe - 3%).
Conclusion - The consequences of CKD were significantly affected on their physical and
psychological health; higher the number of consequences of CKD may worsen the QOL of
patients. The enhancement of QOL of dialysis patients should be focused on palliative care
including both physical and psychological aspects.
