Effect of lower limb compression bandaging on preventing signs and symptoms of first seating induced postural hypotension after major surgery: a controlled clinical trial

ABSTRACT

Post-operative hypotension is most often due to hypovolemia secondary to surgical blood loss, third-space losses, or vasodilatation due to anesthetic agents. The nurse should put into consideration the nursing measures to minimizing it. To evaluate the preventive role of lower limb compression bandaging on postural hypotension and the associated manifestations in post-operative patients with major surgery when first seated from lying position. The research was conducted in the surgery departments at El-Demerdash Hospital, using a controlled clinical trial research design. A sample of 60 patients undergoing major surgery was recruited and randomly divided into two equal groups a study group who had a bandage applied in their lower limbs, and a control group with no bandage. A patient assessment sheet was designed by the researchers to record patient data. It consisted of parts for demographic data, medical history, and physical assessment. At the fifth minute, the mean systolic and diastolic blood pressure were statistically significantly higher in the study group, p=0.01 and p=0.04 respectively, compared to the control group. Also, heart rate, and the severity of palpitations and dizziness, were statistically significantly lower in the study group, at the first, third, and fifth minutes of the sitting position, p<0.001. The mean oxygen saturation was statistically significantly higher in the study group, compared to the control group at all sitting times, p<0.001. Postural hypotension was less in the study group at the fifth minute, p=0.02. Light-headedness, visual disturbances, and pallor were statistically significantly higher among patients in the control group, p<0.001. Postural hypotension and its consequences may be prevented by prior leg bandaging. Use of elastic bandages is advisable when seating patients post-operatively, especially with major surgery and long bed recumbence