Physical Activity and Nutritional Assessment among Nursing Students at one of the Egyptian Universities

Research Abstract

English Summary Title: Effect of Ankle Pump Exercise on Fatigue Sensation, Comfort, and Lower Limb Hemodynamics among Deep Vein Thrombosis Patients Authors: Maharem, T. A. S., Shehata, A. M., & Khalil, B. M. (2022) Journal: International Journal of Health Sciences 1. Background: Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition involving blood clot formation in deep veins, often in the lower limbs. It causes significant morbidity and mortality. Ankle Pump Exercise (APE), which involves rhythmic dorsiflexion and plantarflexion of the ankle, is a simple, non-pharmacological intervention believed to enhance venous blood flow by activating the calf muscle pump, potentially preventing DVT and relieving symptoms. 2. Aim: To evaluate the effect of ankle pump exercise on fatigue sensation, comfort, and lower limb hemodynamics among patients with DVT. 3. Methods: Design: A quasi-experimental study. Setting: Orthopedic Department at Ain Shams University Hospital, Egypt. Sample: 100 adult DVT patients, randomly assigned to: Intervention Group (n=50): Received ankle pump exercises in addition to routine care. Control Group (n=50): Received routine hospital care only. Intervention: The APE involved patients performing maximum plantarflexion and dorsiflexion at a frequency of 30 times/minute for 3 minutes. Data Collection Tools: Tool I: Patient interviewing sheet (demographic and clinical data). Tool II: Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) scale to measure fatigue sensation. Tool III: Comfort Evaluation Scale. Lower limb hemodynamics (blood flow velocity) were measured via Doppler ultrasound. 4. Key Results: Fatigue Sensation (RPE): The mean RPE score improved significantly more in the intervention group (from 6.0 to 11.1) compared to the control group (from 6.0 to 7.0), with a highly statistically significant difference (p < 0.001). Comfort Level: The mean comfort score showed a marked increase in the intervention group (from 1.3 to 5.6) compared to a minimal change in the control group (from 1.2 to 1.4). The difference was highly significant (p < 0.001). Lower Limb Hemodynamics: Peak systolic velocity and time-averaged mean velocity in the common femoral vein were significantly higher in the intervention group post-exercise compared to the control group (p < 0.001), indicating improved venous blood flow. 5. Conclusion: Ankle pump exercises are an effective non-pharmacological intervention for improving fatigue sensation, comfort levels, and lower limb hemodynamics (venous blood flow) in patients with Deep Vein Thrombosis. 6. Recommendations: Integrate ankle pump exercises into the standard care plan for patients with DVT. Provide educational programs for patients on the benefits and correct technique of APE. Replicate the study on a larger scale to generalize the findings. Conduct further research on the effect of APE on the quality of life of DVT patients.

Research Keywords

Nutrition, physical activity, nursing students, health promotion, Egypt