Photoplethysmography-based assessment of varicose vein-related risk factors, exercise health beliefs, and venous refill time in healthcare professionals working in operating rooms and outpatient clinics

Abstract

Bacground: Impaired venous return is observed in healthcare professionals who spend long periods standing and sitting. This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate varicose vein-related risk factors, exercise health beliefs, and venous refill time in healthcare professionals working in operating rooms and outpatient clinics by photoplethysmography. Method: The study sample consisted of 100 healthcare professionals without a diagnosis of peripheral venous insufficiency. Data were collected using a descriptive characteristics form, the Health Belief Model Scale for Exercise, the Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaire, and photoplethysmography. Result: This study found that OR nurses had shorter venous refill times and experienced more pain due to prolonged standing, despite their high health beliefs about exercise. Conclusion: Healthcare professionals working in operating rooms should be screened for venous insufficiency and trained regarding the practices to prevent venous insufficiency, such as lying down, elevating legs, and using elastic stockings.