Chronic Kidney Disease: Clinical Characteristics and psychosocial aspects

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease is characterized by persistent renal impairment and/or loss of renal function. This condition is associated with high morbidity and mortality, and despite progress in prevention, diagnosis and treatment, CKD remains an important public health problem. Emotional discomfort, manifested by symptoms of anxiety and depression, is common in chronic illnesses with incidence/prevalence rates and the severity of symptoms being significantly higher among patients with chronic health problems such as heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis or chronic renal disease, compared to the general population. While the estimate accuracy may vary due to methodological differences and differences in measurements between studies, there are indications that chronic disease with coexisting depression is associated with increased symptom burden and functional impairment, poor quality of life, non-observance of treatment and worse clinical outcomes. Psychosocial issues among these patient groups are important not only for maintaining a good quality of life, but also for managing the disease. As mental health is a predictive factor for the outcomes of CKD patients, the management of any issues that arise is of paramount importance. The role of nephrology nurses is particularly important both in the implementation of nursing interventions related to the treatment and management of the disease, as well as in the provision of individualized psychological support to patients undergoing hemodialysis.

Keywords

• burden
• chronic kidney disease
• clinical characteristics
• psychosocial aspects