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Acupoint Application Combined with Acupoint Massage for Treating Constipation in a Patient with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
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Abdominal massage and laxative use for constipation: a pilot study.

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  • 1Registered Nurse, Cervico-facial surgery unit, Istituto Europeo di Oncologia, Milan, Italy.

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Summary

Abdominal massage and bowel training, combined with polyethylene glycol, significantly improved constipation symptoms in older adults compared to laxatives alone. This intervention also enhanced appetite and food intake, offering a promising alternative for managing chronic constipation.

Keywords:
Abdominal massageConstipationNursingOlder adultsTreatment

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Area of Science:

  • Gerontology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Clinical Nursing

Background:

  • Constipation is a prevalent condition, particularly among older adults.
  • Long-term pharmacological treatments for constipation can lead to adverse complications.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the efficacy of abdominal massage and bowel training with polyethylene glycol against laxative monotherapy for constipation in older adults.
  • To assess the impact on evacuation frequency, laxative use, appetite, and food intake.
  • To evaluate the feasibility of the intervention within nursing care routines.

Main Methods:

  • A pilot, randomized controlled trial involving older adults in a residential facility.
  • Participants were randomized to either an intervention group (abdominal massage, bowel training, and polyethylene glycol) or a control group (laxative alone).
  • Intervention duration was 4 weeks, with outcomes measured at baseline and post-intervention using the Bristol Stool Form Scale and other relevant measures.

Main Results:

  • The study included 32 participants.
  • Significant improvements were observed in the number of evacuations and Bristol Stool Form Scale scores in the intervention group.
  • Enhanced appetite and food intake were also noted as significant benefits.

Conclusions:

  • The combined approach of abdominal massage, bowel training, and polyethylene glycol demonstrates significant improvements in constipation management for older adults.
  • This non-pharmacological and pharmacological combination offers a viable alternative to laxative monotherapy, improving overall well-being.