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Abstract
Background: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) necessitates life-sustaining dialysis, a treatment associated with significant psychological burden, including anxiety, depression, and stress. Nurses are uniquely positioned to provide essential psychosocial support, yet the specific impact and their supportive role require further evaluation in diverse clinical settings.
Aim: This study aimed to assess the psychological impact of CKD on patients undergoing dialysis and to evaluate the supportive role of nurses in addressing these needs at a public hospital in Malakand.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with 218 dialysis patients at SGTH swat. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire assessing psychological impact (anxiety, depression, stress) and perceived nurse support. Analysis employed descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS version 27.
Results: Participants reported moderate to high levels of psychological distress, with anxiety and lifestyle frustration being most prominent. Over half experienced moderate distress, and one-third reported severe distress. Perception of nurse support was generally positive, especially for communication and respectful care. A significant negative correlation was found between perceived nurse support and psychological distress (r = -0.42, p<0.001).
Conclusion: CKD patients on dialysis experience substantial psychological distress. Supportive nursing care, particularly effective communication and emotional support, plays a protective role. The findings underscore the necessity of integrating structured psychological assessments and strengthening nurses' psychosocial competencies into routine dialysis care to improve patient well-being.