Impact of Compression Sock Use on Lower Extremity Health Among Nurses Working 12-Hour Shifts: A 6-Month Study
Advisor(s)
Megan Lieb and Jamie Hunsicker
Confirmation
1
Document Type
Poster
Location
ONU McIntosh Center; Activities Room
Start Date
11-4-2025 10:00 AM
End Date
11-4-2025 10:50 AM
Abstract
Problem Nurses working 12-hour shifts face increased risks of lower extremity issues like varicose veins, chronic pain, and swelling due to prolonged standing and walking. These conditions can impact physical health, job satisfaction, and well-being. Although compression therapy is known to improve circulation and alleviate such symptoms, its long-term effectiveness remains unclear.
Purpose This research aims to determine if wearing compression socks during 12-hour shifts reduces lower extremity issues like varicose veins, pain, and swelling in nurses over six months, and whether it improves their long-term health and comfort.
Methods The research employs a longitudinal, experimental design with two groups: an experimental group that wears compression socks and a control group that does not. The study evaluates whether compression socks can alleviate symptoms such as varicose veins, pain, and swelling, while also improving job satisfaction and overall well-being.
Conclusion Wearing compression socks during 12-hour shifts reduces lower extremity issues in nurses. Participants in previous research reported high adherence and positive feedback on comfort and effectiveness. Wearing compression socks improves physical health, job satisfaction, and well-being, making compression socks a recommended practice for nurses. Its cost-effectiveness offers healthcare facilities a practical solution to improve nurse health and reduce absenteeism. Further research is needed to explore long-term effects and broader applications.
Recommended Citation
Flanagan, Julia B., "Impact of Compression Sock Use on Lower Extremity Health Among Nurses Working 12-Hour Shifts: A 6-Month Study" (2025). ONU Student Research Colloquium. 29.
https://digitalcommons.onu.edu/student_research_colloquium/2025/Posters/29
Open Access
Available to all.
Impact of Compression Sock Use on Lower Extremity Health Among Nurses Working 12-Hour Shifts: A 6-Month Study
ONU McIntosh Center; Activities Room
Problem Nurses working 12-hour shifts face increased risks of lower extremity issues like varicose veins, chronic pain, and swelling due to prolonged standing and walking. These conditions can impact physical health, job satisfaction, and well-being. Although compression therapy is known to improve circulation and alleviate such symptoms, its long-term effectiveness remains unclear.
Purpose This research aims to determine if wearing compression socks during 12-hour shifts reduces lower extremity issues like varicose veins, pain, and swelling in nurses over six months, and whether it improves their long-term health and comfort.
Methods The research employs a longitudinal, experimental design with two groups: an experimental group that wears compression socks and a control group that does not. The study evaluates whether compression socks can alleviate symptoms such as varicose veins, pain, and swelling, while also improving job satisfaction and overall well-being.
Conclusion Wearing compression socks during 12-hour shifts reduces lower extremity issues in nurses. Participants in previous research reported high adherence and positive feedback on comfort and effectiveness. Wearing compression socks improves physical health, job satisfaction, and well-being, making compression socks a recommended practice for nurses. Its cost-effectiveness offers healthcare facilities a practical solution to improve nurse health and reduce absenteeism. Further research is needed to explore long-term effects and broader applications.