Evaluation of Pain Intensity Related to Arteriovenous Fistula Puncture among Hemodialysis Patients

Abstract

Background: Pain associated with arteriovenous fistula puncture is a significant problem among hemodialysis patients. The process of needle insertion often causes considerable physical and psychological discomfort, leading to a decrease in perceived quality of life. Study Objective : Evaluate the level of pain experienced by hemodialysis patients due to arteriovenous fistula puncture. Methods and Materials: A cross-sectional study design was used, with a sample size of 40 patients under hemodialysis. The intensity of pain was measured for these patients during the needle insertion by means of a rating analogies scale. The selection of the study sample was done through a purposive sample from a hospital setting. Data collection was conducted using the rating analogies scale. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data on pain intensity. Results: The results showed that the intensity of pain ranged from moderate to severe. The discussion of the results focused on the implications of the findings for clinical practice and the need for further research in the area. The study highlighted the importance of considering the intensity of pain related to arteriovenous fistula puncture among hemodialysis patients, and the need for further research into interventions that can reduce the associated pain. Conclusion and Recommendations : Based on the results of the study, it can be concluded that arteriovenous fistula puncture causes moderate to severe pain in hemodialysis patients. Therefore, it is recommended that healthcare providers should take necessary measures to reduce the intensity of pain during the procedure. These measures may include the use of pain-relieving medications and other methods such as distraction , relaxation techniques and cryotherapy.