Nutrition Knowledge and Practices in Management of Stage 5 Chronic Kidney Disease by Adult Patients at Kenyatta National Hospital, Kenya

This study sought to determine nutrition knowledge and its association with practices in management of stage 5 chronic kidney disease (CKD) among renal adult patients in Kenyatta National Hospital.A cross-sectional analytical design was used to facilitate collection of qualitative and quantitative data and enable identification of associations between variables.Cochran formula was used to calculate a sample of 110 respondents.A research administered questionnaire with closed ended questions was used to collect information.Descriptive statistics such as frequency and percentage were used to describe demographic and socio-economic characteristics of the population.Inferential statistics were done using chi square with an alpha of 0.05 to test association between independent and dependent variables.Most participants had moderate knowledge levels whereas more than half of the participants (66%) indicated poor nutrition management practices of their condition.There was significant association between period on dialysis in months and practices in management of stage 5 chronic kidney disease.Knowledge on importance of diet in management of stage 5 CKD (<0.001), moderation of fluid intake (<0.001), reduction in salt/ sodium intake (<0.001), and moderation in protein intake (<0.004) were significantly associated with nutritional management practices of stage 5 CKD.The study concluded that Knowledge levels were low in identifying foods rich in phosphorus, calcium and fat soluble vitamins.Practice scores were also poor despite moderate nutrition knowledge levels.Patients' knowledge on nutrition management of their condition may be achieved through frequent and consistent nutrition education and counseling including follow ups.