Hemodialysis is one of the most widely accepted treatment modalities in patients with chronic renal failure. Although Hemodialysis can prolong life it can lead to several complications. The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of intradialytic stretching exercises on fatigue and muscle cramps among patients undergoing Hemodialysis at NIMS Hospital, Neyyattinkara, Kerala. The objectives of the study are to assess the level of fatigue perceived among clients undergoing Hemodialysis before and after intradialytic stretching exercise in both experimental and control group, To assess the frequency and severity of muscle cramps among clients undergoing Hemodialysis before and after intradialytic stretching exercise in both experimental and control group and to determine the effect of intradialytic stretching exercise on fatigue and muscle cramps among clients undergoing hemodialysis in control and experimental group. Orlando’s Theory of Deliberative Nursing Process was used as conceptual framework in this study. Quasi experimental pretest posttest with control group design was used in this study. The data was collected from 60 samples. Data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The present study reveals that majority of the clients undergoing Hemodialysis experience moderate to severe fatigue. Intradialytic stretching exercises proven to decrease fatigue at the level of significance (p<0.01). The study also reveals that there is significant improvement in frequency and severity of muscle cramps after implementing intradialytic stretching exercises.

Keywords : Intradialytic Stretching Exercises; Effect; Fatigue; Muscle Cramps; Hemodialysis Patients