The Effect of Education Using the Teach-Back Method on Symptoms of Depression in Hemodialysis Patients.

Abstract

Background: Recently, the Teach-Back Method has gained recognition in the literature as a promising, evidence-based strategy for patient education.

Objective: This study aimed to assess the impact of individualized education delivered via the Teach-Back Method on depression levels among adult patients with kidney failure undergoing hemodialysis.

Methods: A parallel-group trial with a pre-test and post-test design was conducted. The sample comprised 40 hemodialysis patients. Baseline (pre-test) data were collected from all participants. The intervention group received individualized education using the Teach-Back Method, delivered across three sessions. A post-test was administered 12 weeks after the initial assessment.

Results: Pre-test depression scores were comparable between the intervention and control groups (mean = 13.35 and 13.55, respectively), reflecting mild depression. Following the intervention, the mean depression score in the intervention group decreased significantly to 6.20, indicating a reduction below the mild depression threshold. Conversely, the control group's post-test score increased to 16.40, remaining within the mild depression range.

Conclusion: These findings suggest that Teach-Back education may reduce depression levels in hemodialysis patients. However, given the small sample size and relatively short follow-up period, larger studies with longer follow-up are needed to confirm these findings.

Trial registration: NCT07069634.