EXTENSION ACTION AIMED AT QUALITY OF LIFE AND WELL-BEING IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE ON DIALYSIS

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a condition characterized by abnormalities in kidney function or structure, which can progress to end-stage renal failure requiring dialysis or transplantation. Although dialysis increases survival, it does not cure the patient and is associated with comorbidities and complications that negatively impact quality of life (QoL). QoL is influenced by several factors, including health, work and emotional well-being. Considering that extension actions are activities that aim to articulate scientific knowledge with the needs of society, and can be educational, social, cultural, scientific or technological innovation, this project intended to show that such actions can benefit dialysis patients, bringing new perspectives to minimize the negative effects of dialysis, as well as involving other participants by inserting them into the context of the action. The Kidney Disease Quality of Life - Short Form (KDQOL-SFTM1.3) instrument was used to assess QoL and well-being individually, in addition to group work, considering all patients in the dialysis rooms. In addition to dialysis patients, the action involved students, teachers and a multidisciplinary team, showing an interaction with a positive impact that could benefit patients for greater motivation and adherence to treatment. The data suggested extension action as a useful tool in the dialysis process, benefiting students through humanization and the development of professional skills in their training, and mainly, bringing the university closer to a vulnerable group such as dialysis patients.