Analysis of Venous Insufficiency Risk Factors and Demographic Characteristics among Nurses: An Analytical Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Chronic venous insufficiency negatively affects the quality of life and reduces the job performance of nurses, who are important components of the healthcare system. The aim of this study was to assess the risk factors of venous insufficiency according to demographic characteristics among nurses working at a foundation university hospital. Materials and Methods: This study used an analytical cross-sectional approach. The sample consisted of 100 nurses working at a foundation university hospital in a metropolitan city of Turkey. Data were collected using a demographic characteristics form, VEINESQOL/Sym, and a CEAP classification form. The condition of varicose veins among the nurses was diagnosed by a cardiovascular surgeon using Doppler ultrasonography. Results: The prevalence of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) among nurses was 65%, with 48% at a C1 level according to the CEAP classification. CVI was higher among those with chronic diseases (p = 0.027) and those who had pregnancy (p = 0.021). In addition, the risk of CVI (+) was 7.68 times higher among those aged older than 26.5 years and 36.14 times higher for women (p < 0.001). A 0.9-fold increase in the risk of CVI (+) among nurses produced a one-unit decrease in venous-insufficiency-related quality of life (p = 0.006, OR = 0.94, 95% CI:(0.896–0.982)). Conclusions: The prevalence of CVI among nurses was found to be high, especially among women, those with chronic diseases, and pregnant individuals. In this context, it is recommended to implement risk screening and prevention education programs for CVI among nurses.