Last update:
22-Mar-2022

The adherence to the hemodialysis program of patients with end-stage renal disease is a serious problem. Inclusion in a dialysis program presupposes varying degrees of restrictions with which the patient must comply in order to ensure optimal health and quality of life. This is a review of the factors that affect the adherence of patients to hemodialysis requirements. Regular hemodialysis requires the patient to make adjustments at the emotional and cognitive level, and to adopt appropriate behavior. Factors that are commonly reported to play a role in compliance include marital and occupational status, the new lifestyle, perceptions of the disease, awareness of the consequences of the disease, the duration of hemodialysis, limitations of treatment, effective communication, self-management of the disease and social support. The role of age, gender and educational level has not been clarified, as in most studies they were not associated with adherence, but in others an effect was detected. The contribution of the medicalnursing team, and especially the nurses, is documented to be of significance in achieving the adherence of patients undergoing hemodialysis to the regimen, due to the relationship of trust that develops over the duration of the dialysis program. In conclusion, in order to meet the requirements of the dialysis program, patients undergoing dialysis need to develop specific skills and self-care skills. They need support from the family and social environment, and their socio-economic situation should be such that it is not difficult for them to follow the required diet and medication regimen. The profile of the adherent patient is created by the interaction of personal and sociocultural factors that promote or hinder therapeutic adherence.

Key words: Adherence, End stage renal disease, Factors, Hemodialysis.