Factors affecting the levels of anxiety and depression among patients with end-stage renal disease undergoing hemodialysis

BACK GROUND: Hemodialysis (HD) is a lifesaving procedure required for many patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD) who are not able to undergo a kidney transplant. However, HD could cause anxiety and depression for those patients. This study aimed to assess the levels of anxiety and depressive symptoms and find out the predictors affecting them. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional, descriptive correlational design was adopted on a sample of 230 patients who received HD. Patients answered the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale along with demographic and clinical variables. RESULTS: The study found that patients with ESRD undergoing HD had a high level of anxiety (mean = 10.59 SD = 2.78) and depression (mean = 10.86 SD = 2.49). There were significant differences in anxiety and depressive symptoms in regard to comorbidity, vascular access type, fatigue, fear, and financial status. Predictors of anxiety and depressive symptoms were: creatinine level, fatigue level, HD duration, number of dialysis sessions, blood urea nitrogen level, and age. CONCLUSIONS: Anxiety and depression are under-diagnosed in patients with ESRD undergoing HD in Jordan. Screening and referral to psychological health specialists are needed.