Effect of Foot Reflexology on Physiological Stability, Weight and Fatigue among Children Undergoing Hemodialysis

Abstract

Background: Hemodialysis is a common treatment modality among children, during hemodialysis children may complain of exhaustion, headache, changes in physiologic indices and body weight. Foot reflexology can overcome these complains and help practicing nursing care more efficiently. Objective: Determine the effect of foot reflexology on physiologic stability, weight and fatigue among children undergoing Hemodialysis. Settings: The study was conducted in the Hemodialysis Unit at Smouha Specialty Hospital in Alexandria, Egypt. Subjects: A convenience sampling of 60 children, who admitted to the previously mentioned unit and fulfilled the criteria, comprised the subject. The sample was divided into two equal groups (30 children in each group). Tools: Three tools were used. Tool I: "Sociodemographic Characteristics and Medical History of Children's Assessment Sheet. Tool II: "Physiologic profile Assessment Sheet ". Tool III: "Child Fatigue Scale (FAS)". Results: The study revealed that there was a significant improvement in physiologic indices, and body weight among children in the study group compared to those in the control group (P= 0.005, P= 0.005and P= 0.003respectively). Furthermore, children in the study group exhibited significantly lower fatigue levels than children in the control group (P=0.000, 0.000 and 0.000 respectively). Conclusion: The implementation of foot reflexology is an eminent technique that can improve physiologic stability, body weight, and lowered fatigue level. Recommendations: Pediatric nurses should implement foot reflexology in their practice for children undergoing hemodialysis. Moreover, hospital policies should establish educational programs about foot reflexology for children undergoing hemodialysis.