Published in PLOS One on 2026-08-14, this study is presented as an attributed evidence briefing. The excerpts below are the original researchers’ words, reproduced under their Creative Commons Attribution licence. Health Signal has selected the abstract and, where needed, opening background paragraphs; the complete methods, results, limitations and references remain in the linked paper.
Original authors: Alhassan Hassan, Menford Owusu Ampomah, Cecilia Eliason, Luke Laari, Paul Kolbugri, Bridget Amoako, Joy Georgette La Bulley, Dorcas Yvonne Berko, Euphemia Tumpi
Source: PLOS One • DOI 10.1371/journal.pone.0356068
Read the complete primary study ↗ · Creative Commons Attribution licence
From the researchers
Abstract
Patients with End-Stage Kidney Disease (ESKD) who undergo haemodialysis (HD) frequently encounter significant physical and psychosocial challenges. The quality of nursing care plays a crucial role in determining patient outcomes. However, there is limited understanding of how this patient population in resource-constrained settings in Northern Ghana perceive the quality of nursing care during treatment. Also, the delivery of patient-centered care for patients undergoing HD is challenged by systemic issues such as limited dialysis machines, frequent breakdown of equipment, poor water supply and staff shortages.
This study explored the perceptions of quality nursing care among adults on HD treatment in Northern Ghana.
This exploratory descriptive qualitative study was conducted at Tamale Teaching Hospital, the only public referral dialysis center in Northern Ghana. Fifteen (15) patients who had been receiving HD for at least six (6) months were purposively selected and interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using Braun and Clarke’s reflective thematic analysis.
Two main themes were identified: respect for patient preferences and physical comfort, each with three sub-themes. Patients highlighted the importance of involvement in decision-making, maintaining dignity, respect for autonomy, and culturally sensitive care as essential components of quality nursing care. Perceptions of physical comfort were shaped by effective pain management, timely assistance with activities of daily living, and a clean hospital environment.
Enhancing patient-centered care for individuals undergoing HD requires practical and context-appropriate interventions that address both interpersonal and system-level factors. Key strategies to improve quality nursing care include nurse-led patient education using simple local language, routine pain assessment, timely management during dialysis, preservation of patient privacy, compassionate communication, and culturally responsive care. Also, addressing workflow inefficiencies and strengthening dialysis centers with resources may further improve patients’ treatment experiences, satisfaction, and overall quality of care in resource-constrained settings. Regular monitoring of discomfort, timely response to pains and cramps, ensuring privacy during procedures, and improving workflow to reduce waiting time were also emphasised. Continued staff education in compassionate communication (soft skills) and culturally sensitive care, and improved dialysis resources were recommended to address both interpersonal and structural barriers to quality care.
1. Introduction
End-stage kidney disease (ESKD) represents a significant global health challenge, with an estimated prevalence exceeding 4.9 million individuals requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation worldwide [1]. Projections indicate that this figure may double by 2035 [1]. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) in many patients may progress to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), where dialysis becomes a life-sustaining treatment [2,3]. Despite advances in dialysis technology and clinical management, patients undergoing dialysis continue to experience high rates of morbidity and mortality, particularly in resource-constrained settings. Consequently, the quality of nursing care delivered in dialysis units has become a critical determinant of patient outcomes, treatment adherence, and overall quality of life. Within dialysis settings, quality nursing care includes competent vascular access management, symptom control, infection prevention, patient education, emotional support, and continuity of care [4].
Reading this evidence
Use the full paper to check the study design, participant selection, comparator and outcome definitions before drawing a practical conclusion. An association does not by itself show cause and effect. A reported performance measure needs its denominator and uncertainty. A finding from a particular facility, sample or time period should retain that scope when it is discussed elsewhere.
This briefing makes the source accessible within the wider hospital systems desk. It does not assess an individual patient or certify a product. When considering relevance to another health system, examine the original authors’ account of context and limitations, then seek local implementation evidence. The related reporting below provides other studies to read alongside this one; it is a topic connection, rather than a claim that their results are directly comparable.
© 2026 Alhassan Hassan, Menford Owusu Ampomah, Cecilia Eliason, Luke Laari, Paul Kolbugri, Bridget Amoako, Joy Georgette La Bulley, Dorcas Yvonne Berko, Euphemia Tumpi. Excerpts reproduced under CC BY. Selection, formatting and contextual notes by Health Signal. The researchers are the authors of the source study, not members of Health Signal’s staff.
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