Persons on haemodialysis : their knowledge and self-care in the management of an arteriovenous fistula

Abstract

The aim of this descriptive survey is to study a number of persons on HD taken from a cohort of Maltese patients suffering from ESRD, their knowledge regarding the care and management of an A VF on a daily basis and in cases of an emergency, their perceived and practiced education and any other information needed regarding the care of the AVF. Qualitative data was collected through interviews from a convenient sample of ten participants of the entire Maltese population suffering from ESRD, who attend the hospital three or four times a week. The findings disclosed local practices used in educating clients regarding the care of an AVF. They outlined the factors endangering the AVF, and how one deals effectively in minimizing these risks. Half the participants think that enough information and education was provided, whilst the other half disagreed with this account. In fact, lack of patients' education was suggested several times during the study and it emerged as a major obstacle in the care of an AVF. The participants' response in identifying information exigencies demonstrated the need for more education. Most of the participants were willing to learn and utilise education in aiming to protect and save their lifeline. The findings also suggested negligence and lack of education on both the health care providers' and the patients' side as a major area of concern, and the importance to manage such issues effectively was recognized. Moreover, the study revealed the great need for patients to have regular training and education in managing their AVF effectively and efficiently since currently, these are not offered. In addition, the need for leaflets and booklets was perceived as being necessary in case reference is required. Finally, by reaching the proposed objectives, recommendations about how to improve patients' knowledge and self-care in the management of an AVF was made possible.