For African-American Women On Hemodialysis, Social Support, Psychological Factors Contribute To Fatigue

Main Category: Urology / Nephrology
Also Included In: Psychology / Psychiatry;  Women's Health / Gynecology
Article Date: 16 Jan 2008 - 3:00 PDT

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African Americans account for approximately 32% of patients diagnosed with ESRD, more than any other racial group in America. While fatigue is a common side effect for ESRD patients, studies have not explored factors contributing to fatigue, especially among African American women with ESRD. In the November-December 2007 issue of Nephrology Nursing Journal, Amy G. Williams, MSN, RN, and co-authors explored physiologic (anemia, uremic malnutrition), psychological (mood disorders) and situational factors (social support) contributing to fatigue in this group in hopes of developing life-improving interventions.

The authors found a correlation between social support and uremic malnutrition; this lack of support can lead to noncompliance in dietary requirements, which in turn leads to fatigue. In addition, Williams and co-authors found correlations between anxiety, depression and fatigue.

The authors recommend further research examining the effect of social support and psychological factors on fatigue. For nephrology nurses, understanding the causes of fatigue in African American Women on hemodialysis will help focus assessments and individualized care plans for this patient population.

Fatigue in African American Women on Hemodialysis Amy G. Williams, MSN, RN; Patricia B. Crane, PhD, RN, FAHA; Daria Kring, MSN, RN, BC Nephrology Nursing Journal; November-December 2007 http://www.annanurse.org/journal

Nephrology Nursing Journal is a refereed clinical and scientific resource that provides current information on a wide variety of subjects to facilitate the practice of professional nephrology nursing. Its purpose is to disseminate information on the latest advances in research, practice, and education to nephrology nurses to positively influence the quality of care they provide. For more information, visit http://www.annanurse.org/journal.