Effect of Structured Exercise Program on Fatigue among Women with Carcinoma Cervix Receiving Radiotherapy

Abstract

The present study assessed the effect of structured exercise program on fatigue among women with carcinoma cervix receiving radiotherapy in Medical College Hospital, Kozhikode. The objectives were to assess the fatigue among women with carcinoma cervix receiving radiotherapy, evaluate the effect of structured exercise program on fatigue and to find out the association between fatigue and selected socio-personal variables. Experimental approach with quasi experimental, pre-test -post-test control group design was used. The tools used were interview schedule to assess socio-personal data and rating scale to assess the fatigue (r=0.744). The sample consisted of 60 women with carcinoma cervix receiving radiotherapy, from which 30 were assigned to the control and experimental group using non-probability purposive sampling. Using interview schedule, socio-personal data were collected from both groups. In the control group, the fatigue assessment was done for 3 consecutive weeks and in experimental group, the structured exercise program was taught and continued for 3 consecutive weeks, and fatigue was assessed in this period. The data were analysed by descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings revealed that the structured exercise program is effective in reducing the fatigue of women with carcinoma cervix receiving radiotherapy. There is significant association between the fatigue and the education, monthly family income, ability to perform activities of daily living, treatment modality and body built. The study has implications in various aspects in nursing.