Efficacy of intradialytic exercise on blood pressure among patients on hemodialysis

Controlling blood pressure is a key to lowering the risk of complications and achieving more comfortable treatment. There are unique challenges in both the measurement and management of blood pressure in dialysis patients. Exercise during hemodialysis could control improve the blood pressure.

The aim of the study to assess the efficacy of intradialytic exercise on blood pressure among patients on hemodialysis.

Quasi experimental research design was adopted to conduct the study with 130 samples who met the inclusion criteria in hemodialysis unit and samples allocated into experimental group (n=65) and control group (n=65). The demographic questionnaire was completed at the beginning of the study. Pre-test was conducted to determine the blood pressure in both the group. Experimental group received intradialytic exercise during first two hours of hemodialysis for 3months besides control group received the routine care. Post test was conducted at the end of 3^rd month after the dialysis session. Data were analyzed using Sigma Plot 12 (Systat, USA).

Among the patients in the experimental group, pre-test and post-test values were compared (Paired t’ test) and observed statistical significant (p<0.001) changes in systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure after the intervention whereas no significant changes was found within the control group.

The study concludes that the intradialytic exercise is simple, non-pharmacological and cost effective in reducing blood pressure.