Assessment of Information Needs, Practices, and Challenges Encountered by Patients in Postoperative Period Regarding the Use of Anti-Embolism Stockings

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study is to identify the information needs, practices, and challenges encountered by patients in the postoperative period regarding the use of anti-embolism stockings (AES). Methods: This study was carried out in descriptive design. The study's sample group comprised 351 patients who utilized AES for a minimum of 48 hours during the postoperative period in the departments of orthopedics, neurosurgery, and general surgery at the Health Research and Practice Center affiliated with a university in Ankara, between September 25, 2017, and September 26, 2018. A questionnaire developed by the researcher, including questions about sociodemographic characteristics and the use of AES, was used to collect data. The data was obtained by face-to-face interview method. Results: Approximately half of the patients in this study reported receiving information about AES. It was determined that the size of the AES of almost all patients was determined without measuring their legs. Most patients were found to have never removed their stockings throughout their usage and never washed them. The problems experienced by the patients while using AES were respectively; difficulty in wearing, increased temperature, curling, redness, sweating, and itching. Furthermore, it was determined that female patients statistically suffered from pain, curling, redness, and stage 1 pressure injuries significantly more than men. Conclusion: In this study, it has been determined that patients in the postoperative period have a need for information regarding AES and experience various problems due to incorrect usage.