The effect of spiritual intervention on self-esteem of hemodialysis patients: A semi-experimental study

Introduction:
Hemodialysis is a crucial treatment for patients with chronic renal failure. Despite its effectiveness in managing end-stage renal failure, hemodialysis patients face multiple physical and psychological stressors. Recognizing the interconnectedness of body and soul, religious and spiritual views can potentially provide valuable support. Previous research has indicated that spiritual beliefs impact patients’ health and self-esteem. This study surveys the relationship between spiritual intervention and self-esteem in hemodialysis patients in the Iranian population.

Material and methods:
The study is semi-experimental and involves 44 hemodialysis patients in Kermanshah in 2016. After convenience sampling, the patients were divided into two groups, control (22 patients) and intervention (22 patients), using random allocation. For the intervention group, spiritual-religious sessions lasting 45-60 minutes were scheduled twice a week in a group format. Inclusion criteria for participation included being 18 years or older, having undergone hemodialysis for at least 6 months, and providing informed consent. Data collection involved assessing demographic features and using the Coppersmith Self-Esteem Scale. Finally, the data were analyzed using the independent sample t-test, Fisher’s exact test and the chi-square test. P < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

Results:
Before the intervention, mean self-esteem in the intervention group was 23.80 ±1.99. Mean self-esteem in the control group was 23.85 ±2.03. After the intervention, mean self-esteem in the intervention group increased significantly to 37.28 ±2.53 after the spiritual-religious intervention (p < 0.05). Mean self-esteem in the control group remained relatively stable at 23.42 ±1.88 (p > 0.05).

Conclusions:
The findings suggest that spiritual-religious sessions have a positive effect on the self-esteem of hemodialysis patients. Incorporating spiritual care into the patients’ overall care program may contribute to improving their self-esteem. Therefore, recognizing the holistic needs of patients, including their spiritual well-being, can enhance patients’ self-esteem during the challenging process of hemodialysis.