ASSESSMENT OF COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT AMONG PATIENTS UNDERGOING HEMODIALYSIS: A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive global health problem, and a significant proportion of patients with advanced disease require haemodialysis for survival. Patients undergoing haemodialysis are exposed to multiple complications, among which cognitive impairment is increasingly recognized. Though majority of the patients undergoing hemodialysis remain underdiagnosed for cognitive impairment. Thus, assessing the cognitive impairment among patients undergoing haemodialysis, and  examining the potential relationship between cognitive impairment and various sociodemographic factors has become increasingly important. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive design was selected for this study which was conducted at the Dialysis Unit of xxx from 1st January 2026 to 30th January 2026. A non-probability convenience sampling technique was used to select 150 patients undergoing hemodialysis. A structured socio-demographic Proforma was used to gather socio-demographic data, and the Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination III was used to assess the cognitive impairment in patients undergoing haemodialysis. The data collected were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Results: Of the 150 patients studied, 88% had cognitive impairment. The mean total cognitive score was 68.12 ± 11.97, indicating a mild to severe level of cognitive impairment among patients undergoing hemodialysis. Cognitive level was negatively correlated with age and associated with educational qualification (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The study concluded that the majority of patients undergoing haemodialysis exhibited some degree of cognitive impairment, while only a small proportion demonstrated a normal cognitive level. These findings emphasise the importance of early identification and regular cognitive assessment among patients undergoing haemodialysis.