A Scoping Review on Interventions for Alleviating Suffering in Hemodialysis Patients

Abstract

Objective: To systematically analyze the current status of interventions for alleviating existential distress in hemodialysis patients, explore the core components, outcome measures, and effectiveness of these interventions, and provide a theoretical basis for developing interventions targeting existential distress in this population. Methods: Following the methodology of scoping reviews, eight databases—PubMed, SinoMed, CHINA, Embase, Web of Science, CNKI, Wanfang, and VIP were systematically searched using computerized methods. The search period spanned from database inception to July 1, 2025. Key information was extracted from the included studies, including publication year, intervention methods, intervention duration, and outcome measures. Results: A total of 15 studies were included. Interventions related to concepts of existential distress in hemodialysis patients primarily included cognitive-behavioral therapy, emotional release therapy, and relaxation training. These interventions demonstrated positive effects on psychological distress, psychological crisis, demoralization, and quality of life among hemodialysis patients. Conclusion: Currently, there are no intervention studies specifically targeting existential distress in hemodialysis patients. Healthcare professionals should, in the future, draw upon interventions related to existential distress concepts—such as those addressing demoralization and psychological crisis to develop tailored intervention programs for alleviating existential distress in hemodialysis patients.