Effectiveness of Deep Breathing and Range of Motion Exercises in Reducing Fatigue among Chronic Kidney Disease Patients Undergoing Haemodialysis: A Quasi-Experimental Study
Samir Kasam Choudhari, Tukaram B Zagade, Sharat V. KondaguliObjectives
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is often linked to persistent physical and mental exhaustion, particularly among patients receiving hemodialysis. To help manage this fatigue, deep breathing techniques along with a range of motion (ROM) exercises were incorporated into the patients’ daily care routine as supportive strategies to improve comfort and reduce tiredness.
Material and Methods
A two-group quasi-experimental investigation having a non-equivalent design was executed from February 2023 to July 2024 among CKD subjects undergoing haemodialysis. The study included 116 participants, with 58 assigned to the intervention group and 58 to the reference group. Participants in the intervention group practiced deep breathing and ROM exercises for six weeks, whereas those in the control group continued to receive routine hospital care. Fatigue levels were quantified via the Fatigue Assessment Scale (FAS), and the collected data were evaluated through suitable parametric and non-parametric statistical methods.
Results
The post-intervention findings showed a marked reduction in fatigue levels, with 86% of patients reporting only moderate fatigue after the treatment protocol. In the treatment group, the mean fatigue score declined significantly from 27.66 ± 5.05 to 18.96 ± 3.48, whereas no noticeable positive outcomes were recorded within the reference group.
Conclusion
The study concluded that regularly practicing deep breathing and ROM exercises can significantly reduce fatigue among patients with CKD undergoing haemodialysis.