POS-896 QUALITY OF LIFE OF FAMILY CAREGIVERS OF PATIENTS UNDERGOING IN-CENTER HEMODIALYSIS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: PRELIMINARY RESULTS

Caring for a patient with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing in-center hemodialysis (IHD) has been described as a stressful experience. In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, these patients are exceptionally vulnerable as they combine several risk factors (e.g., old age, less efficient immune system, other comorbidities) along with the need to travel to a dialysis unit to receive treatment 3-4 times a week in common rooms. Previous qualitative research has evidenced that caring during the lockdown was even more challenging, as family caregivers of patients with ESRD faced greater emotional strains due to increased care responsibilities.