| Abstract: | Objectives: To explore the factors associated with dialysis modality choice for ESRD patients. Methods: 98 Hemodialysis (HD) patients and 102 Peritoneal Dialysis (PD) patients were recruited and interviewed with a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire collects data on social demographic characteristics, cognition of dialysis modality, family and social support, perceived feeling, prior medical history and clinical assessments. Based on Andersen’s medical care utilization model, statistical analyses including chi-squared tests and two-sample t tests, were carried out to compare the predisposing factors, enabling factors, and need factors between the HD group and the PD group. Multiple logistic regression analysis was implemented to explore factors associated with dialysis modality choice. Results: After adjusting for age and sex, factors including marry status (OR=7.54, 95% CI=2.09-27.23), cognition of dialysis modality (OR=1.1, 95% CI=1.02-1.18), family support (OR=1.26, 95% CI=1.02-1.54), traffic time to dialysis center (OR=4.13, 95% CI=1.52-11.23), emergency dialysis (OR=0.25, 95% CI=0.10-0.67) and perceived feeling (OR=1.36, 95% CI=1.23-1.51) are significantly associated with PD use. Conclusion: In summary, we suggest that chronic kidney disease patients should be referred to nephrologists in time to receive complete care and education in the Pre-ESRD stage. To enhance patients’ cognition of dialysis modality and empower patients to make appropriate decisions according to their preference and need is also strongly recommended. Furthermore, sufficient resource of PD, including medical care professionals and facilities, should be provided to help ESRD patients making their choices appropriately. |
