HEALTH EDUCATION FOR PRURITUS PREVENTION IN HEMODIALYSIS PATIENTS

Abstract

Backgrounds : Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a progressive kidney condition leading to numerous complications, including pruritus, particularly in patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD). Pruritus, or uremic itching, significantly impacts the quality of life of HD patients. Health education has been identified as a potential intervention to mitigate this issue. Objectives:This scoping review aims to collate existing literature on the effectiveness of health education in preventing pruritus among hemodialysis patients. Method: Utilizing a PRISMA- guided methodology, databases including PubMed, ScienceDirect, ProQuest, Wiley, and Scopus were searched for relevant studies. The inclusion criteria encompassed studies focusing on hemodialysis patients, pruritus, and health education, published in English post-2013. A total of 181 articles were initially identified, with 18 meeting the final inclusion criteria after screening. Results: The findings indicate that various health education interventions, including emotional intelligence programs, PRECEDE model-based education, and video-assisted teaching, significantly contribute to pruritus prevention in HD patients. These interventions improve patients' self-care behaviors, knowledge, and attitudes towards managing their condition, thus enhancing their quality of life. Conclusion: The review highlights the importance of incorporating health education into the standard care of HD patients to address pruritus effectively.