MO1041AWARENESS, KNOWLEDGE AND PERCEPTION OF CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE PATIENTS AT RENAL MEDICINE OUTPATIENTS' CLINIC, SINGLE CENTRE EXPERIENCE

Abstract

Abstract Background and Aims Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the Sultanate. Many preventive measures have focused on early detection and education. Hence, awareness and education of kidney disease influence positively its medical management and diminish significantly the economic burden on public health. Knowledge of CKD and risk factors increases the perception of being at high risk and increasing health seeking behaviour. We conducted a longitudinal survey at Renal Medicine Department among our patients to assess the level of awareness, knowledge of CKD and the treatment options. Method We used a pretested structured questionnaire to collect information on socio-demographic and knowledge of patients attending Renal Medicine Department. The questionnaire was distributed to all CKD patients of at least one-year duration after their diagnosis. Results A total of 200 patients completed this study, mainly from the capital region. The mean age was 50 (SD 17.1) years for male participants and 42.3 (SD 16) years for female participants. The majority (74.3%) knew the reason for their referral to nephrologist. 31% of the patients with CKD reported their shock when informed about their kidney status by the nephrologist at the first time. Two third (64%) of patients reported having no knowledge of their kidney function and 50% of them were not aware about renal replacement therapy options. 52.1% of participants refused for early access creation. 22% of them expressed their refusal for the early access creation as they have no uremic signs. Finally, 60% of the study participants had no family member attending with them during their clinic visit. Conclusion Patients and their family should receive enough information and education regarding the nature of renal disease and the options for the treatment to allow them to make an informed decision about the management of their CKD. Awareness of the factors associated with a well-informed-decision making in the treatment of CKD can provide health professionals with evidence on how best to deliver education programs for patients and their families. It may also enhance communication and improve the capacity for patient and family involvement in shared decision making.