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Acupressure and postoperative nausea and vomiting
Angela G Hickman1, Donald M Bell, John C Preston
1Knoxville Anesthesia Group, Anesthesia Medical Alliance of East Tennessee, USA. ahickman@bellsouth.net
AANA Journal
|November 3, 2005
Summary
Acupressure may offer a safe, cost-effective alternative for preventing postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). Further research is needed to explore this nonpharmacological approach for anesthesia care.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Background:
- Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) remains a challenge in anesthesia care, increasing costs and prolonging recovery.
- Current pharmacological antiemetics have limitations regarding side effects and cost-effectiveness.
- Western medicine prioritizes evidence-based interventions, while Eastern cultures utilize traditional remedies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the existing literature on acupressure as a nonpharmacological method for PONV prevention.
- To identify knowledge gaps regarding the efficacy and safety of acupressure in anesthesia.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on nonallopathic remedies for PONV.
- Analysis of studies investigating acupressure for PONV prophylaxis.
Main Results:
- A growing body of evidence suggests potential benefits of nonpharmacological interventions for PONV.
- Acupressure is being explored as a viable alternative to traditional antiemetics.
Conclusions:
- Acupressure presents a promising nonpharmacological option for PONV prevention.
- Further investigation is warranted to establish acupressure's role in anesthesia practice.