Effect of Implementing Acupressure Technique on Gastrointestinal Problems and Pain Control for Children Post Abdominal Surgeries

Abstract

Abdominal surgeries are defined as procedures carried out by surgeons for the children's abdominal regions for treating a medical condition. Pediatric surgical problems are a broad spectrum of surgical condition that occurs in children. Sometimes, it is considered a proper option of pediatric management to save children's lives and prevent and decrease disabilities and death. Aim: evaluate the effect of the acupressure technique on gastrointestinal problems and pain control for children post-abdominal surgeries. Methods: the study was a quasi-experimental research design and used for 80 children from the Tanta Main University Hospital's pediatric surgical department. Tools: were used to collect data: A structured Interview Schedule to assess the socio-demographic characteristic and medical history of children, a Rhodes index of nausea and vomiting form to assess nausea and vomiting, and a visual analog scale to assess nausea, vomiting and pain. Results: The current study found statistically significant differences in the occurrence of postoperative nausea, vomiting, and pain on the first- and second-days following implementation. Conclusion: There are a significant improvement in the children's nausea, vomiting, and pain after abdominal surgeries. Recommendations: Acupressure should be utilized as a collaborative nursing intervention method to minimize post-operative gastrointestinal side effects (nausea and vomiting) in pediatric surgery patients.