The effectiveness of structured educational programs for hemodialysis patients in Korea: an integrated literature review

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to provide evidence for future research by analyzing the contents, delivery methods, and educational effects of educational programs for hemodialysis patients. Methods: A literature review was conducted in the following order: problem identification, literature search and data collection, data evaluation, data analysis, and data presentation. In total, 936 documents were retrieved from the search, and 24 documents were finally included in this study. Results: The contents of the educational programs were comprehensive hemodialysis-related knowledge education in seven studies, exercise-related education in 10 studies, diet-related education in four studies, drug-related education in one study, and complex education in two studies. The delivery methods were pamphlets in six studies, audio-visual materials in four studies, direct guidance by researchers in six studies, and multiple methods in seven studies. The effects of the educational program were divided into physical indicators, emotional indicators, and knowledge and performance related to hemodialysis. Sixteen out of 20 articles using physical indicators showed significant outcomes, and 10 out of 12 articles using emotional indicators derived positive results. Hemodialysis-related knowledge and performance were measured in eight and 10 studies, respectively, and meaningful results were found in six studies for knowledge and seven studies for performance. Conclusion: Future research will require the development of a systematic and standardized educational program with comprehensive content that can be provided to all hemodialysis patients, as well as a highly accessible education delivery method to enhance the effectiveness of education.