Effects of a program to reduce fatigue among sepsis survivors: a randomized controlled trial

Sepsis survivors frequently experience prolonged fatigue, which impacts their quality of life. This study aimed to investigate the effects of the program reducing fatigue among sepsis survivors. This single-blind randomized controlled trial included 68 sepsis survivors at a tertiary hospital in Bangkok. Participants were randomized into experimental (n = 34) and control (n = 34) groups and evaluated at three time points: baseline, 2 weeks and 4 weeks into the program. The experimental group received a 4-week program involving exercise, mindfulness, nutritional education, and sleep hygiene via the Line application. Fatigue was measured using the Piper Fatigue Scale-12 (PFS-12). Statistical analysis was performed using repeated measures analysis of variance. Baseline fatigue scores did not significantly differ between the groups. The experimental group had a significantly lower mean score for fatigue in week 4 than at baseline (F = 1510.790, p < 0.001). Between-group comparisons showed significant differences in fatigue scores at all time points, particularly in week 4 (F = 1003.66, p < 0.001 and F = 527.695, p < 0.001, respectively). However, the experimental group had a lower mean fatigue score than the control group. The 4-week program significantly reduced fatigue among sepsis survivors. Trial registration: Thai Clinical Trials Registry https//www.thaiclinicaltrials.org/show/TCTR20240329002. The registration number is TCTR20240329002. The date of registration is 12/03/2024.