Psychosocial factors associated with pain in patients treated by haemodialysis: a 2-month follow-up protocol

Abstract

Background: Many patients treated by haemodialysis (HD) experience pain. The aim of this study is to assess the frequency of pain in patients undergoing HD and its association with various psychosocial factors over a 2-month period. Methods: 100 patients having HD will complete standard measures of pain (BPI, QDSA), coping with pain (CSQ, CPCI), personality (BFI, LOT-R), depression and anxiety (HADS), relations with caregivers (4PAS) and quality of life (KDQOL-36) at inclusion and 2 month later. In between, patients will complete a short questionnaire during each dialysis session to assess their emotional state, pain and relationship with the nurse. Intra-individual and inter-individual changes in pain and emotional state during dialysis sessions will be explored using latent growth modelling, as well as to identify the profile of patients at risk of experiencing pain. Semi-structured interviews will be proposed to 20 patients experiencing a significant level of pain during one dialysis session during the study, and their nurse. A thematic analysis will be performed. Expected results: Results should show which are the most important psychosocial factors associated to pain occurrence, increase and decrease during HD. Current stage of the work: 40 patients have been included, from whom 25 finished their participation. Discussion: This study will provide a better understanding of the pain experienced by patients undergoing HD and determine the importance of several psychological factors and inter-personal relationships. The results should also provide knowledge about the psychological profile of patients at risk of experiencing pain.