Background

Varicose vein is a common occupational health problem among nurses due to prolonged standing and physical strain associated with professional duties. It affects their comfort, work efficiency, and quality of life.

Aim

The present study was conducted to assess the prevalence, severity, and occupational risk factors of varicose vein among staff nurses.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional research design was adopted for the study. A non-probability purposive sampling technique was used to select 300 staff nurses working in various departments. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, and the Venous Clinical Severity Scale (VCSS) was used to assess the severity of varicose vein.

Results

The findings of the study revealed that 30% of the staff nurses had symptoms of varicose vein. Among them, 36% had severe symptoms. A higher prevalence was observed among nurses with more than five years of experience, those working in operation theatres and intensive care units, and nurses who stood continuously for prolonged periods. The occurrence of varicose vein was strongly associated with occupational and personal risk factors such as age, weight, standing duration, department of work, years of experience, family history, and hypertension.

Conclusion

The study concluded that varicose vein is prevalent among staff nurses and is significantly associated with occupational risk factors. Preventive measures such as periodic rest, leg elevation, and the use of compression stockings are recommended to reduce the risk and severity of varicose vein among nurses.