A program to help new hemodialysis patients adjust to treatment

HED-Start: A Randomised Controlled Trial to Evaluate a Positive Skills Intervention for Patients New on Haemodialysis

NA · Nanyang Technological University · NCT04774770

This study is testing a new support program to help people who just started hemodialysis feel more comfortable and confident in managing their treatment.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment148 (estimated)
Ages21 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorNanyang Technological University (other)
Locations1 site (Singapore)
Trial IDNCT04774770 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates a group-based intervention called HED-Start, designed to improve self-care and emotional wellbeing among patients who have recently started hemodialysis. It addresses psychosocial barriers and misperceptions that can hinder adjustment to life on dialysis. The intervention employs self-management and motivational interviewing principles to enhance patients' understanding and confidence in managing their treatment. The study will assess the feasibility and acceptability of this approach through a randomized controlled trial.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with end-stage kidney disease and are on hemodialysis for less than 90 days.

Not a fit: Patients who are unable to provide informed consent, have cognitive impairments, or are nearing end-of-life care may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve the emotional and self-care outcomes for new hemodialysis patients.

How similar studies have performed: While similar psychosocial interventions have shown promise in improving patient outcomes, the specific approach of HED-Start is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients diagnosed with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) and established on hemodialysis with the National Kidney Foundation Singapore (NKF) for fewer than 90 days
* At least 21 years old
* Proficient in spoken and written English or Mandarin

Exclusion Criteria:

* Unwilling or unable to give informed consent or refuse to be randomized
* Have cognitive impairments or psychiatric conditions that preclude consent
* Are currently involved in other intervention trials
* Are failing on dialysis and approaching end of life (supportive/palliative care pathway)

Where this trial is running

Singapore

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: End Stage Renal Disease on Dialysis, End Stage Renal Failure on Dialysis, End Stage Renal Disease, End Stage Kidney Disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.