55. Identifying chronic kidney disease patients’ priorities and preferences for information topics (26)

Paula Ormandy, Research Fellow, Salford Centre for Nursing, Midwifery and Collaborative Research, University of Salford, Greater Manchester, United Kingdom
Co authors: Claire Hulme, Jane Macdonald, Ann-Louise Caress, Donal O’Donoghue, Dennis Crane
pormandy@btinternet.com

Abstract:

Innovative studies to identify and measure the information needs of patients highlight priorities and preferences with regard to what information they need and when (Degner et al 1998; Luker et al 1996). The premise of this study was that chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients share similar traits, have preferred key information topics, which are of a priority to them, at different times during progression of their disease. A cross-sectional survey design, stratified patients, by modality, time on/ waiting for dialysis, age and gender. Phase One explored the information needs of CKD patients using semi-structured interviews (n=20). Thematic analysis uncovered nine core information topics, verified by participants.

Phase two, using structured interviews (n=89) developed/tested the validity of a CKD Information Needs Questionnaire (Degner et al 1998) using Thurstonian paired comparisons approach/analysis (Sloan et al 1994) and SPSS/SAS software. High priority information topics: self-management (understanding blood results, diet/fluid restrictions) (scale value 0.355); complications (scale value 0.192); and physical symptoms (scale value 0.134). Lower priority items: other patients’ experiences (scale value -0.44); how to adapt and cope (scale value -0.178). Differences were observed in priority scale values for: pre-dialysis compared established dialysis patients; younger (<50yrs) and older patients; and education level. Perceived knowledge levels increased over time and with experience of treatment (ANOVA, p=0.036). 82.1% of patients preferred information from the consultant but found the dietician and renal nurse useful. Top preferred methods for information provision; verbal face to face alone (85.4%); or with the family (70.8%); and written information (62.9%).

CKD patients have identifiable priorities and preferences with respect to information needs that change over time, as the disease progresses. Core information topics could be targeted by professionals to focus discussion/education and meet the information needs of CKD patients. Nationally the findings inform the current DoH ‘Renal Services Information Strategy’ initiatives.

Biography:

Paula Ormandy has a clinical practitioner background in nephrology nursing, where she practised for 9 years, developing both a national and international profile within the specialised field. She introduced and developed the senior research nurse post within the Nephrology Service at Salford Royal Hospitals NHS Trust. Within this role she was responsible for cultivating nursing research and searching for evidence upon which to ground nursing practice. Her MSc dissertation focused on evaluating the effectiveness of evidence based practice groups and strategies to overcome barriers nurses’ experience implementing evidence in practice. Her commitment to encourage health care professionals to examine and strengthen their practice led her to take up a Research Fellow role in the School of Nursing at the University of Salford. Her passion lies within renal nursing and she is undertaking a PhD surrounding the information needs of chronic kidney disease patients. She was successful in securing funding from the British Renal Society for part of the study. She is a Research Board Member/Secretary for the European Dialysis & Transplant Nurses Association/European Renal Care Association and a member of the North West RCN Research Forum steering group.