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Learning Objective 1: Discuss how nutritional status in the ESRD population is related to quality of life and depression nutritional status.
Learning Objective 2: Identify and discuss selected demographic characteristics associated with health-related quality of life and depression in the ESRD population.
Purpose: The purpose of the proposed study is to determine the relationship between nutritional and selected health-related outcomes in patients undergoing chronic hemodialysis.
Approach: A cross-sectional exploratory, correlational research design will be implemented to better understand relationships between nutritional status and health-related outcomes in individuals undergoing hemodialysis. Hemodialysis patients will be recruited from four dialysis facilities in the tri-county area of Montgomery, Alabama which serve a high percentage of African Americans with chronic illnesses.
Analysis: Correlational analyses and general linear models will be utilized to address the study aims. Correlational bivariate and multivariate analyses will be employed to address the hypotheses and research question. Common Pearson correlation coefficients will be estimated and tested between the outcomes (HRQOL and depression) and each of the nutritional status indicators and patient & disease characteristics. Correlation coefficients will be computed between the reported dietary protein intake and albumin and nPCR, respectively.
Significance: The proposed study is the fundamental step for acquiring a broader understanding of the relationships between nutritional status and health-related outcomes in patients with ESRD receiving hemodialysis. These findings will form a basis for exploring the potential to improve quality of life, improve nutritional assessment, and reduce morbidity among ESRD patients through the development of interventions to improve kidney disease-associated patient outcomes. This project will also contribute to the understanding of the larger cultural values and health disparities among ESRD patients receiving hemodialysis.