Vevey

Chronic Kidney Disease-Associated Pruritus (CKD-aP) is a distressing skin itching condition affecting around 25% of Swiss patients undergoing hemodialysis, mostly with moderate to severe symptoms. This condition negatively impacts sleep, quality of life, social interaction, and survival. Researchers are evaluating the effect of hand massage by nurses on itch severity, health-related quality of life, and sleep compared to usual care in patients on hemodialysis. The study uses a mixed-methods design including a randomized controlled trial and qualitative interviews to better understand the intervention's effects and patient experiences. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the hand massage group or a control group receiving verbal attention without physical touch. The hand massage involves rhythmic and circular movements with moderate pressure on the forearm, palm, and fingers, applied for 10 minutes three times a week during the first month and once a week for the next two months. The control group receives 10 minutes of uninterrupted nurse conversation on the same schedule during the first month and once monthly for the following two months. Data collection includes questionnaires administered at baseline, one month, and three months. Participants will complete assessments of itch severity, itch-related quality of life, health-related quality of life, and sleep quality at baseline, one month, and three months. Twelve participants from the massage group will be interviewed to explore their experiences. The study includes continuous monitoring, and statistical analyses will compare group outcomes over time. The total participation duration is three months, with follow-up assessments and qualitative interviews for deeper insights.