Abstract
Background: This pilot project examined the potential effect of a twelve week so called intervention activation program (IAP) during haemodialysis (HD). The IAP includes supervised exercise and psycho-social therapy.
The aim is to activate the internal driving force and regulate behaviour of both patients and nurses to active support of the therapy with the impact on physical and psychical condition and on maintaining as long lasting self-sufficiency. Methods: Group of patients (M/F n=15/8; age 60.9+-14.7yrs) randomised into exercise (EG) and non-exercise (CG) group.
For testing we used Senior Fitness Test Manual, KDQOL-SFTM-SF36. Exercise intervention focused on improving joint mobility, muscle strength, nimbleness, dynamic stability and cardio respiratory endurance.
Psycho-social intervention included self-reward, structured problem solving, social network reinforcement and relapse prevention counselling. Results: In general, both the physical and psychological conditions were severely deteriorated in most components as compared to the non-renal population.
In EG we observed physical improvements (pLESS-THAN OR EQUAL TO0.01) mainly in tests using muscle work of lower extremities and certain physical fitness level. The quality of life in EG improved in the components of physical and emotional limitations of roles (no significance).
In CG there was nonsignificant physical impairment and the quality of life was impaired (pLESS-THAN OR EQUAL TO0.05) in components of physical and emotional limitations of roles. Conclusions: An appropriate IAP during HD may contribute to improve functional and psychological status already in twelve weeks.
The IAP should be seen as cost effective, efficient and acceptable for patients.