Validation of instruments to assess the quality of life of the elderly with chronic renal insufficiency

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic renal failure affects an entire adult population and influences their quality of life. In Ecuador it is reported that more than 65% of patients with hypertension and diabetes progress to kidney failure. Objective: To validate the instruments to evaluate the influence of hemodialysis on the quality of life of the elderly with chronic renal failure, Dialysis Center Unit. Materials and methods: The research had a qualitative-quantitative approach, non-experimental, descriptive cross-sectional design. A pilot test was carried out with the instruments to be validated in a sample made up of 15 older adults who are on hemodialysis replacement therapy. Results: The quantitative instrument or survey obtained a reliability coefficient (Cronbach's Alpha) of 0.80 and the interview or qualitative instrument, a score of 95 according to the experts' rubric, so the instruments were approved and their application is reliable for respond to the objectives set out in the research. Conclusions: With the results obtained by the pilot plan carried out, a considerable influence of chronic renal failure on quality of life is identified, including repercussions at an emotional level, developing depression. The data obtained validate the effectiveness of the instruments for the study.