Effect of Local Warm Compression on Restless Leg Syndrome and Fatigue among Critical Care Nurses: A Parallel Randomized Clinical Trial

Abstract

Background and Aim. Fatigue and restless leg syndrome are common complications in critical care nurses (CCNs). The present study aimed to investigate the effect of local warm compression on restless leg syndrome and fatigue in CCNs. Methods and Materials. This parallel randomized clinical trial was conducted on 120 CCNs in Shahroud by the census sampling method. Inclusion criteria included suffering from restless leg syndrome and having no wound or inflammation over the organ. The participants were assigned into two groups by the use of quadruple blocks. The intervention group received the warm compress for 12 sessions lasting 4 weeks and the control group did not receive an intervention. Data were collected using multidimensional fatigue inventory (MFI) and the Restless Legs Syndrome Scale and then analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics (chi-squared test, independent sample t-test, and pair sample t-test). Results. The two groups were homogeneous in terms of demographic characteristics. Prior to the intervention, the two groups of warm compression and control did not have a significant difference in terms of mean fatigue and restless leg syndrome scores; however, after the intervention, a significant reduction was observed in the intervention group (p<0.001). Conclusion. According to the results of the current study, the use of warm compression is an effective intervention in alleviating fatigue and restless leg syndrome, so it is recommended to implement this intervention as a nonpharmacological strategy among CCNs. Clinical Trial Registration Number. IRCT20190723044316N1.