The effect of leaflet-based nutrition education on potassium and phosphorus knowledge and dietary adherence among patients receiving haemodialysis

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a long-term condition characterized by a progressive decline in kidney function, affecting more than 850 million people worldwide. Patients undergoing haemodialysis often face challenges in managing their potassium and phosphorus intake, which may increase the risk of serious complications, including cardiovascular disease and bone disorders. This study aimed to examine the effect of leaflet-based nutrition education on patients’ knowledge and dietary compliance regarding potassium and phosphorus intake among individuals with CKD undergoing haemodialysis. A one-group pretest–post-test design was employed, involving 30 respondents selected through purposive sampling. Nutrition education on potassium and phosphorus management was delivered using leaflets over a one-week period. Data were collected using validated and reliable questionnaires assessing patients’ knowledge and dietary compliance. The instruments were reviewed by three experts: a consultant nephrologist and hypertension specialist, a clinical nutrition specialist, and a haemodialysis nurse. Before the intervention, the mean knowledge score was 2.70, while the mean dietary compliance score was 1.67. Following the intervention, these scores increased to 4.57 and 2.40, respectively. Statistically significant improvements were observed in both knowledge (p<0.001) and dietary compliance (p<0.001). These findings suggest that leaflet-based nutrition education may improve patients’ knowledge and dietary compliance regarding potassium and phosphorus management. Therefore, this educational approach could serve as a practical strategy to support dietary management among patients with CKD undergoing haemodialysis.

Keywords: Chronic kidney disease, dietary adherence, haemodialysis, nutrition education, potassium and phosphorus management