Improving Patients' Experience Through Nurturing Care for Patients Undergoing Kidney Biopsies: A Feedback Survey

Molefe Rapalai, Specialty Dr, Renal Medicine, Royal Shrewsbury Hospital, West MidlandsFollow
Mahmoud Elshehawy, Specialty Dr, Renal Medicine, Royal Shrewsbury Hospital, West MidlandsFollow
Johann Nicholas, Nephrology Consultant, Royal Shrewsbury Hospital, West MidlandsFollow
Patrick Anthony Ball, Adjunct Professor, School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Charles Sturt University, AustraliaFollow
Hana Morrissey, Pharmacist Consultant, Independent Researcher, Australia and Adjunct Professor, Ruhuna University, Sri LankaFollow

ORCID

Molefe Rapalai: https://orcid.org/0009-0007-0602-4520

Mahmoud Elshehawy: https://orcid.org/0009-0001-3678-7103

Johann Nicholas: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5386-9039

Patrick Anthony Ball: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8918-2119

Hana Morrissey: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9752-537x

Abstract

Background: Renal biopsies are a key tool in diagnosing kidney diseases, providing histopathological insights for personalised treatment plans. Despite their clinical value, little is explored about how patients experience this invasive procedure. Understanding these experiences is important for improving care quality, safety, and ensuring the process is as patient friendly as possible. There is also a lack of research capturing patient experience feedback on renal biopsies, making studies like this essential for guiding service improvement initiatives. Method: Observational study, May 2022 to June 2024. Eighty-six percutaneous renal biopsies performed. Fifty eligible patients invited to complete the Kidney Biopsy Patient Experience Survey. Twenty-nine patients responded, response rate 58%. The survey, distributed four weeks after the procedure, considered different phases of the experience; before, during, and after the biopsy. It focused on the clarity of information, emotional support, pain management, and post-procedure care. Quantitative results were summarised using descriptive statistics, while written feedback was reviewed to identify recurring themes. Results: The results showed high levels of patient satisfaction. Respondents included both male (44.8%) and female (55.2%) participants, with ages ranging from 25 to over 80 years. All patients reported feeling emotionally supported during the biopsy, and 96.6% were satisfied with pain control. After the procedure, 96.6% said their recovery was as expected or better, and everyone received clear discharge instructions. Most (75%) had no post-discharge issues, while others experienced minor symptoms like localised pain, blood in the urine, or mild fever. Conclusion: Findings highlight the value of listening to patients to improve kidney biopsy care and support, especially in nephrology where such surveys are underexplored.

Recommended Citation

Rapalai M, Elshehawy M, Nicholas J, Ball P, Morrissey H. Improving Patients' Experience Through Nurturing Care for Patients Undergoing Kidney Biopsies: A Feedback Survey. Patient Experience Journal. 2026; 13(1):57-68. doi: 10.35680/2372-0247.2084.