| Sumario: | The aim of this study was to determine the effect of itching on sleep quality and comfort in hemodialysis (HD) and renal transplant (Tx) patients with itching. This descriptive, correlational seeking and cross-sectional study was conducted in four hospitals affiliated with a private health group in Istanbul between April and June 2021. The sample of the study consisted of 42 patients receiving HD treatment and 49 patients with renal transplantation. Data were collected using the Patient Information Form, 5-D Itch Scale, Richards-Campbell Sleep Questionnaire and General Comfort Questionnaire. There was a significant difference between the HD and renal transplantation groups in the Direction (p = 0.01) and Disability dimension (p = 0.002) of the 5- D Itch scale in favor of the renal transplant group. The mean sleep quality and comfort scores of the groups were similar and moderate. Itching negatively affects sleep quality in patients receiving HD treatment, and 22 % of the change in sleep quality is explained by disability of itching (R2 = 0.22; p = 0.002). Itching negatively affects comfort in both groups. Itching explains 27 % of the change in comfort level in the HD group (R2 = 0.27; p = 0.002) and 25 % of the change in comfort level in the renal transplantation group (R2 = 0.25; p = 0.001). According the study results during the hemodialysis treatment process, itching is more intense in terms of distribution and disability and affects the quality of sleep of patients. Itching has a significant impact on patients' perception of comfort. Patients experience itching both during HD treatment and after renal transplantation, which significantly impairs their comfort. Therefore, itching should be carefully monitored during renal replacement therapy and its effects on patients should be evaluated. • Itching is a common and uncomfortable symptom in patients with chronic kidney disease. • Itching is more intense in patients undergoing hemodialysis than in patients with kidney transplantation. • Itching has a significant negative impact on sleep quality and comfort level in patients receiving hemodialysis. • Itching also has a significant negative impact on the comfort level in patients with kidney transplantation.
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