The Effect of Foot Massage on Pain Severity, Hemodynamic Parameters, and Mechanical Ventilation Weaning Time among Patients in Critical Care Settings

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Lecturer, Critical Care and Emergency Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Mansoura University, Eygpt.

Abstract

Foot massage is considered one of the essential complementary modalities that became an issue of
concern in critical care settings, it is non-invasive, simple to use, less expensive, and produces few
risks or complications. This research aimed to determine the effect of foot massage on pain
severity,hemodynamic parameters, and the length of mechanical ventilation weaning time among
patients in critical care settings. Methods: Quasi-experimental design was used in three intensive
care units affiliated with Mansoura Emergency Hospital.A convenience sample of 62 critically ill
patients was enrolled and chosen at random to the foot massage group and the control group. Data
were collected using the patients' demographic, and health-relevant data; the hemodynamic
parameters assessment sheet, mechanical ventilator weaning time, andthe behavioral pain scale tool.
Results: Statistically significant differences were found in comparison to the control group and the
foot massage group regarding pain score, and hemodynamic parameters at (P <0.05). Additionally,
statistically significant variations in the length of MV weaning period between the two study groups
were detected at (P=0.036). Conclusion:In critical care settings, foot massage is a useful strategy
for reducing pain intensity, stabilising hemodynamic parameters, and reducing patients’dependence
on ventilators.Recommendation: The study recommended that foot massage can be introduced as
an auxiliary intervention to conventional nursing care for critically ill patients.

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