Effect of Instructional Guidelines on Knowledge and Self-Care Practices among Pregnant Women Suffering from Leg Cramps

Ibrahim Mohamed, Nora; Abdel-Salam Ramadan, Soad; Mohamed Abd El-hakam, Eman; Abd Elwahab Afifi Araby, Ola

doi:10.21608/jnsbu.2023.310300

Effect of Instructional Guidelines on Knowledge and Self-Care Practices among Pregnant Women Suffering from Leg Cramps

Document Type : Scientific peer reviewed journal

Authors

¹ Specialist Nursing at El Kanater Elkayria Secondary Nursing School

² Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecological Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Benha University

³ Assist Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecological, Faculty of Nursing, Benha University

⁴ Lecturer of Obstetrics and Gynecological Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Benha University

10.21608/jnsbu.2023.310300

Abstract

Background: Leg cramps during pregnancy are a common discomfort characterized by
involuntary, painful contractions of muscle groups that usually occur in small muscles of the foot but
can affect different parts of the leg. Aim: The study aimed to evaluate effect of instructional guidelines
on knowledge and self-care practices among pregnant women suffering from leg cramps. Design:
Quasi-experimental design (pre – posttest ″one group‶) was utilized Setting: The study was conducted
at Obstetrics and Gynecological out -patient clinic in Benha University hospital. Sample: A purposive
sample was used; it includes all pregnant women with leg cramps admitted to previous setting for six
months. Tools: A structured-interviewing questionnaire, maternal knowledge questionnaire and
Maternal self-report about self-care practices regarding leg cramps questionnaire. Results: There was a
highly statistical significant difference between the results of post-test compared to pre-test about
knowledge and self-care practices regarding leg cramps. Conclusion: The implementation of
instructional guidelines was effective in improving pregnant women's knowledge and self-care
practices regarding leg cramps. Recommendation: Practice modification to prevent leg cramps should
be recommended by Obstetricians and obstetric nurses to be first trial by pregnant women who have leg
cramps. Also, Booklets and brochures containing sufficient knowledge about leg cramps during
pregnancy and its management should be printed and kept in antenatal clinics and maternity hospitals
and given to all pregnant women.

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