Exercise Effect on Psychological Distress of Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis at Al-Suwaiq Dialysis Center

The Effect of Non-pharmacological (Exercise Home-based Method) Intervention on Psychological Distress of Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis at Al-Suwaiq Renal Dialysis Center

The aim to investigate the level of psychological distress on patients undergoing hemodialysis at Al-Suwaiq Renal dialysis center as well as to explore the effectiveness of home-based exercise method in reducing such psychological distress, depression, and anxiety.

the main questions aims to answer,

1. Does hemodialysis patients have high level of psychological distress.
2. Does exercise has effect on reducing psychological distress on hemodialysis patients.

participants randomized into control and intervention group, intervention group received home based exercise for 6 month while control group not, to compare in reducing of psychological distress.

Patients with kidney failure undergoing hemodialysis experience psychological distress.Several psychosocial stressors have an impact on patients undergoing hemodialysis as dialysis treatment imposes several lifestyle changes. These include the impact of disease and treatment, dietary and fluid restrictions, functional limitations, sexual dysfunction, future uncertainty and fear of death. Commonly associated psychosocial issues include depression and anxiety. Exercise interventions may mitigate this outcome, but their clinical role is unclear. Thus. this project aims to examine the effect of non- pharmacological intervention exercise, walking, in reducing psychological distress.

This is a two-phases study in which a cross-sectional study will be conducted to evaluate the level of psychological distress among (n=132) patient undergoing hemodialysis at Al- Suwaiq renal dialysis center. as second phase patients randomize into two groups, One group will receive the non- pharmacological intervention (exercise home based) while the other group will continue the regular treatment plan. After 6 months of follow-up, a post-assessment of the psychological symptoms of the interventional and the control groups, using the same tool designed by University of Michigan Depression Center. A face-to-face survey will be applied among selected patients. A paired t-test will be used to assess the expected improvement due to the intervention program by comparing the pre-post assessments of psychological distress level. This study is expected to provide an alternative method of treatment to help renal patients to cope with their treatment consequences.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults ≥18 years of age
• Diagnosis of ESRD on dialysis at least for 3 years
• Stable (no recent exacerbation).
• Not having Diabetic feet.
• Walking without assistance.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Any acute or chronic condition that would limit the ability of the patient to participate in the study.
• Refusal to give informed consent