EFFECTIVENESS OF WARM WATER FOOT BATH THERAPY ON FATIGUE AMONG CANCER PATIENTS RECEIVING CHEMOTHERAPY: A PILOT STUDY

Author Name: 1. Arjun Lal Kumawat 2. Dr. Jasmine Santha J

Volume/Issue: 06/09

Country: India

DOI NO.: 08.2020-25662434 DOI Link: https://doi-ds.org/doilink/03.2026-31884959/UIJIR

Affiliation:

1. Ph. D Scholar, Nirwan University Jaipur, India.
2. Professor, Faculty of Nursing, Nirwan University Jaipur, India.

ABSTRACT

Background: Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is one of the most prevalent and distressing symptoms experienced by patients undergoing chemotherapy. Despite advances in oncology treatment, fatigue significantly affects physical functioning, psychological well-being, and quality of life. Non-pharmacological, nurse-led interventions are increasingly recommended to complement medical management. Objective: To evaluate the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of warm water foot bath therapy in reducing fatigue among cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. Methods: A pilot pre-experimental study with a one-group pretest–posttest design was conducted among chemotherapy patients in a tertiary care hospital. Fatigue levels were assessed using a standardized fatigue assessment scale before and after administration of warm water foot bath therapy for a specified duration over consecutive days. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for analysis. Results: Findings indicated a reduction in mean fatigue scores following the intervention. The therapy was feasible, well-tolerated, and demonstrated potential clinical benefit in fatigue management. Conclusion: Warm water foot bath therapy appears to be a safe, low-cost, and feasible nursing intervention for reducing fatigue among chemotherapy patients. Larger randomized controlled trials are recommended to confirm effectiveness.

Key words: Cancer-related fatigue, Chemotherapy, Warm water foot bath, Hydrotherapy, Nursing intervention, Complementary therapy