Effect of a nurse-led educational programme on knowledge and practice in the management of menopausal problems among rural women

Abstract

Life expectancy is increasing so women are likely to live many years after their menopause. The aim of this quasi-experimental study was to investigate the effect of a nurse-led health education programme (NLEP) on knowledge and reported practice in managing menopausal problems. A pre-post-test only design was used for the study, which was conducted in a primary healthcare setting in South India. Multistage cluster sampling was used to select 414 women aged 45-55 years. Interventions provided to manage menopausal problems included sessions on lifestyle and nutritional modifications, four yoga positions, and relaxation and deep breathing techniques. Each participant was given a ‘home practice log sheet’ to record their adherence. Knowledge and reported practice were assessed using a structured interview schedule at baseline and at four weeks. The outcome was measured in terms of improvement in knowledge and reported practice and the findings indicate that the NLEP was effective, irrespective baseline variables.