Benefits of intradialytic physical training on the perception of patients undergoing hemodialysis

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyze the benefits of intradialytic physical training in the perception of hemodialysis patients. Descriptive qualitative research with 34 patients undergoing hemodialysis treatment at the renal clinic of Hospital São Vicente de Paulo, in the city of Cruz Alta, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, in 2019. Physical exercises were performed during the first two hours of treatment and consisted of stretching activities, aerobic training, resistance training and muscle relaxation. An interview was applied with the following guiding question: “Did you notice any benefit in your health after the period of physical training? Which one(s)?”. The answers were transcribed and later analyzed using the Content Analysis technique. Of the 34 patients surveyed, 16 were male and 18 were female. Participants in the intradialytic physical training program reported the following benefits: physical (improved physical fitness and improved functionality), psychological (feeling of well-being; better perception of quality of life; and, improvement in mood and self-esteem) and perception of exercise as an ally to treatment (improvement of pain; reduction of cramps; and alleviates the problem). Some participants (n=4) reported that the program did not bring benefits. Thus, knowing the patients' perception in relation to physical exercise programs, or actions aimed at increasing the level of physical activity in this specific population, can be very important for greater adherence to these actions.