Hyperphosphatemia in Hemodialysis Patients: Can an Educational Intervention Make a Difference?

Abstract

<p>Adherence to the treatment regimen, including proper phosphate binder use and the monitoring of dietary phosphorus intake, is crucial to optimal health outcomes in hemodialysis patients. Hyperphosphatemia remains a significant health problem in hemodialysis patients since excessive serum phosphate is associated with increased morbidity and mortality rates in this patient population. Hyperphosphatemia can occur due to lack of knowledge. The purpose of this program is to determine the effect of an educational intervention on phosphorus knowledge in hemodialysis patients.</p> <p>Participants consisted of a convenience sample of 12 hemodialysis patients. The teaching intervention utilized a pre and posttest design. The difference in pre and posttest scores was analyzed to determine the effect of the educational intervention on patients’ knowledge of phosphorus. Post test scores revealed a statistically significant increase in phosphorus knowledge in participants (Z value = -2.97; p � .05). Responses to the openended qualitative question revealed that friends and family members were important support team members that enabled participants to adhere to their dietary phosphorus regimen. Implications for further studies include the expansion of educational interventions to include friends and family members and the inclusion of individuals from various ethnic and racial backgrounds. Nurses are strategically situated in hemodialysis units to provide patient education. Advanced practice registered nurses can provide leadership to other nurses on the use of evidenced-based educational interventions that positively impact patient outcomes.</p>