A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL TO EVALUATE THE EFFECTIVENESS OF A NURSING CARE PACKAGE ON SELECTED ADVERSE EFFECTS AMONG PATIENTS RECEIVING INJECTABLE ANTICOAGULANTS

Abstract

Background: Injectable anticoagulants are widely used in hospitalized patients for the prevention and treatment of thromboembolic disorders. Despite their effectiveness, these agents are associated with adverse effects such as pain and bruising at injection sites, which may affect patient comfort, adherence, and safety.

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of a structured Nursing Care Package (NCP) in reducing selected adverse effects—specifically pain and bruising—among hospitalized patients receiving subcutaneous injectable anticoagulants.

Methods: Randomized Controlled Trial study was conducted among 180 hospitalized patients receiving injectable anticoagulants, divided equally into experimental and control groups. The experimental group received a structured Nursing Care Package in addition to routine care, while the control group received routine care alone. Pain and bruise severity were assessed using standardized scales before and after the intervention. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results: Following the intervention, the experimental group demonstrated a significant reduction in mean pain scores (from 3.29 ± 1.81 to 1.89 ± 1.14; p = 0.001) and bruise scores (from 2.46 ± 0.89 to 1.77 ± 0.72; p = 0.001). Although the control group also showed some improvement, the magnitude of reduction was greater in the experimental group. No significant association was found between pain and selected co-morbidities (χ² = 7.504, p = 0.585).

Conclusion: The Nursing Care Package was effective in significantly reducing pain and bruising associated with injectable anticoagulant therapy. Incorporating structured nursing interventions into routine care may improve patient outcomes and safety.