Managing phosphate levels in haemodialysis: The patient's view.
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Managing phosphate levels in haemodialysis: A qualitative study exploring the views and experiences of patients.
IRAS ID
192237
Contact name
Sorrel Burden
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Manchester
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 8 months, 3 days
Research summary
Phosphate is a mineral in the blood that gets into the body through a range of different foods. Healthy kidneys usually control the amount of phosphate in the blood and get rid of any excess phosphate out of the body in the urine. People receiving haemodialysis, often have high levels of phosphate in their blood. This is because when the kidneys are not working properly, phosphate is not passed out of the body in the urine and it can start to build up in the blood.
Control of phosphate levels is important in people receiving haemodialysis. In the long term, high phosphate levels can damage the bones and can also affect the blood vessels and the heart, leading to an increased risk of heart disease. Controlling phosphate levels in haemodialysis can be complex and challenging for patients. To help achieve phosphate control, people undertaking haemodialysis are often required to follow a diet low in phosphate. Individuals may also need to take medication to help control their phosphate levels.
Little is known about the views and experiences of haemodialysis patients managing their blood phosphate levels. The proposed piece of qualitative research aims to fill this gap and is designed to look at various aspects of phosphate management from the patient’s point of view. An interview study will be carried out with approximately 12 adult haemodialysis patients. They will be invited to attend a single interview lasting up to 60 minutes, which will be recorded. An interview study will help dietitians and other health professionals to understand what it is like to manage high phosphate levels in chronic kidney disease. The findings will be used in the development of future services and support, which will be better suited to meet the needs of patients.
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - Leeds East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/YH/0483
Date of REC Opinion
14 Nov 2016
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion