Abstract
Renal failure, characterized by the inability of kidneys to filter waste, necessitates dialysis, which imposes substantial financial burdens on patients. In Nigeria, high dialysis costs, often exceeding the monthly minimum wage, compel patients to adopt various coping strategies. Limited research exists on the determinants influencing these strategies. This study aimed to identify the determinants of coping strategies employed by patients with renal failure to manage dialysis costs at a tertiary health institution in Benin City A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 110 patients receiving dialysis. Data were collected using structured questionnaires covering demographic variables and the Brief-COPE inventory, which assessed coping styles: problem-focused, emotion-focused, and avoidant coping. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation to examine associations between coping strategies and determinants such as financial status, religion, social, and psychological support. Findings revealed significant between financial status and financial coping strategy (p = 0.003), social support and coping strategies of social (p < 0.001) and psychological support (p = 0.006). Financial constraints led many patients to adopt problem-focused coping through family support and expense prioritization, while emotion-focused coping, including religious support, was also prevalent. Avoidant strategies were less commonly employed. Financial, social, and psychological support systems play crucial roles in coping with dialysis costs among renal patients. Improved support mechanisms could alleviate financial stress and enhance coping, potentially improving patient adherence and health outcomes. Keywords: Renal failure, kidneys, dialysis, financial burden, Patients.
