The Impact of a Nurse-Led Interactive Educational Program on Fluid and Dietary Adherence among Hemodialysis Patients

Background: Adherence to fluid and dietary restrictions is a cornerstone in the management of hemodialysis patients. Non-adherence leads to severe complications like pulmonary edema and hyperkalemia. Traditional education often lacks engagement, making nurse-led interactive programs essential for better outcomes. Aim of the Study: To evaluate the impact of a nurse-led interactive educational program on fluid and dietary adherence among hemodialysis patients. Subjects and Methods: Design: A quasi-experimental research design (Pre-test/Post-test). Setting: The study was conducted in the Hemodialysis Unit at Sohag University Hospitals. Subjects: A convenience sample of 100 adult patients on maintenance hemodialysis. They were divided into two equal groups: Study Group (50 patients): Received the interactive educational program. Control Group (50 patients): Received routine hospital care. Tools: Data were collected using: Tool I: A structured interview questionnaire (Demographic and medical data), Tool II: The Dialysis Diet and Fluid Non-adherence Questionnaire (DDFQ), and Laboratory investigations (Serum Potassium and Phosphorus). Results: The results revealed a statistically significant improvement in adherence scores for both fluid and diet in the study group compared to the control group after the program implementation (\(p < 0.001\)). There was a significant reduction in inter-dialytic weight gain (IDWG) and improved levels of serum potassium and phosphorus among the study group participants post-intervention. Conclusion: The nurse-led interactive educational program significantly improved patients' knowledge and adherence to dietary and fluid restrictions. This highlights the crucial role of nurses as educators in specialized dialysis units. Recommendations: Integrating interactive educational programs as a routine part of nursing care in all dialysis units.Providing simplified instructional booklets and visual aids for patients and their families to support home adherence.