Evaluating Stress among Family Caregivers of Hemodialysis Patients with End-Stage Renal Disease

Abstract

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive condition leading to end-stage renal disease (ESRD), often requiring hemodialysis. Hemodialysis imposes significant physical and psychological demands not only on patients but also on family members, who serve as primary caregivers. High caregiver stress can adversely affect both caregiver well-being and patient outcomes.
Objectives: This study aimed to assess the level of stress among family members of patients undergoing hemodialysis and to examine its association with socio-demographic and patient-related factors.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed involving 120 family caregivers at a selected hospital in Gazipur, Dhaka. Data were collected using a structured socio-demographic questionnaire and the Kingston Caregiver Stress Scale. Descriptive statistics summarized caregiver characteristics and stress levels, while Chi-square and t-tests assessed associations with selected variables.
Results: Findings revealed that $74.2%$ of caregivers experienced severe stress, $25%$ moderate stress, and $0.8%$ low stress. Stress levels were significantly associated with age, gender, family type, marital status, income, area of residence, and patient condition severity. Younger caregivers, males, those from nuclear families, and caregivers of patients with severe illness reported higher stress.
Conclusion: Family caregivers of hemodialysis patients experience substantial stress influenced by multiple socio-demographic and patient-related factors. Integrating targeted interventions, including counseling, educational programs, and social support, into routine hemodialysis care is essential to reduce stress, enhance caregiver well-being, and improve patient outcomes.