Knowledge, attitudes and behaviors of relatives of dialysis patients about chronic renal failure disease

The aim of this study is to examine the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of the relatives of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) who are interested in the patient, about the chronic kidney failure disease. This study is cross-sectional and descriptive and was conducted in 2022 between hemodialysis patients and their relatives or caregivers who are one-on-one. 239 patient relatives or caregivers voluntarily participated in the study. The data were collected through face-to-face interviews and filling in the questionnaire form prepared by the researchers. It is seen that 86.2% of the patient's relatives are first-degree relatives of the patient. In general, 89.5% of the participants in the study stated that they received information about CRF disease from doctors and 49.0% from other health personnel. The level of knowledge of the patient's relatives about the functions of the kidneys was found to be low, 59.4% to moderate and 16.3% too high. The level of knowledge about the causes of CRF was found to be low, 56.9% to medium, and 10% too high. The probability of a high level of knowledge of CRF, age, being a woman, and increasing the level of education (p=0.052) of the participants were found statistically significant. The level of knowledge about the symptoms of CRF was found to be low in 30.1%, moderate at 51.9%, and high at 18.0%. The vast majority of those caring for CRF patients are first-degree relatives. The level of knowledge of the patient's relatives about CRF is generally moderate. Patient relatives should be more informed and supported about CRF. KEYWORDS: Chronic renal failure, Caregivers, Knowledge, Attitudes, Behaviors