Do Compression Stockings Used During Cesarean Sections Affect Intraoperative Hypotension and Nausea? A Single-Blinded Randomized-Controlled Study.

Purpose: The present study aimed to determine the effects of compression stockings used during cesarean section on intraoperative hypotension.

Design: The study had a randomized-controlled single-blind design.

Methods: Seventy-two women were included in the study (36 in the intervention group and 36 in the control group). The closed envelope method was used for randomization. Women in the intervention group were fitted with compression stockings. During surgery, vital signs were monitored every 5 minutes using noninvasive methods, a Maternal Follow-up Form was filled out, and medications used were recorded. Standardization was achieved by applying the same protocol for spinal anesthesia, and preoperative and intraoperative fluid replacement in all women. This study adhered to the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) checklist for reporting.

Findings: In the group where compression stockings were used, mean systolic blood pressure (8.5%), diastolic blood pressure (15.6%), and mean arterial pressure (11.5%) values were higher, and nausea (36%), vomiting (93%), antiemetic use (38%) and vasopressor agent use (53%) were reduced.

Conclusions: Compression stockings are a feasible method in cesarean section surgeries because they are a simple, accessible method that reduces reliance on pharmacological agents.