Physiological and psychosocial stressors among hemodialysis patients in the Buea Regional Hospital, Cameroon

INTRODUCTION: End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) is an irreversible kidney condition and hemodialysis is the most frequent treatment option used for this condition. However, hemodialysis also has a detrimental impact on the quality of life and the individuals' physical and psychosocial wellbeing. The main objective of this study was to identify physiological and psychosocial stressors faced by patients undergoing hemodialysis in the Buea Regional Hospital in Cameroon. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out (December 2016 - January 2017) among patients undergoing hemodialysis at the Buea regional hospital. Data were collected with the use of a structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 21.0. Quantitative variables were expressed as frequencies, percentages and means. RESULTS: Among the patients undergoing hemodialysis, 28 (70.0%) were below 5-year dialysis while 12 (30.0%) had been on dialysis for five years and more. 21(52.5%) were male and 19(47.5%) female. Half of the patients were married 20(50%), 13(32.5%) were single, 6(15%) were divorced, and one (2.5%) was a widower. Also, 28 (70.0%) were below 5-year dialysis while 12 (30.0%) had been on dialysis for five years and more. All participants experienced at least one or more physiological and psychosocial stressors. Among physiological stressors, the most frequent were feeling tired (97%), followed by arterial and venous stick (88%) while itching (49.5%) was the least noted physiological stressor. Among psycho-social stressors, the most recurrent were transportation to and from the hospital (99.5%), cost of treatment (99.5%) and Limits on time and place of vacation (99%), followed by Limitation in physical activities, frequent hospitalizations, the length of time on dialysis, uncertainty about the future, changes in life style, increased dependence and sleep disturbances. CONCLUSION: The topic of stressors is of importance among patients receiving dialysis, as these affect their psycho-social and physiological wellbeing. Thus, nephrologists, nurses and family members play an important role in providing patients with effective psycho-social and physiological support.