Knowledge regarding prevention of varicose vein among nurses

Abstract

Introduction: Varicose veins are usually present in the lower limbs due to high pressures in the veins caused by long hours of standing, for example, nurses. This study was designed to find out the knowledge among nurses regarding risk factors and prevention of varicose veins.

 Method: A self-administered questionnaire was used to find out knowledge regarding the prevention of varicose veins among nurses of Patan Hospital, Patan Academy of Health Sciences, Lalitpur, Nepal during May-Jul 2019. A systematic random sampling technique was used. Data were descriptively analyzed for frequency and percentage regarding years of job, workstation, and knowledge about the varicose veins. Ethical approval was obtained for the study.

 Result:  Out of 211 nurses, 73(34.6%) had an inadequate level of knowledge, 101 (47.9%) had moderate and 37(17.5%) adequate level of knowledge regarding the prevention of varicose veins. One-third, 66(31.3%) had 5-10 y and the same number had >10 y work experiences. The mean knowledge score was 63.1±18.0.

 Conclusion: The majority of the respondents 101(47.9%) had a moderate level of knowledge and one-fifth had an adequate level of knowledge regarding the prevention of varicose veins.

 Keywords: knowledge, nurses, varicose vein