Investigation of rocking as a postoperative intervention to promote gastrointestinal motility

Debilitating gas pain is a common sequel for patients who have undergone abdominal surgery. Resulting from impaired motility induced by the mechanical and psychological stresses of surgery, as well as the effects of anaesthetic and analgesic agents, accumulated gas in the bowel often leads to longer and more unpleasant hospital stays. In this article, the authors describe ongoing research aimed at mediating gas effects in women post-hysterectomy. Using rocking as a moderator of the surgical stress response, the study hypothesizes a more rapid resumption of GI motility with decreased gaseous distention and associated pain, and less emotional distress for patients who follow a regimen of rocking in addition to ambulation. A sample of 34 patients is being studied, and data are being collected during a preadmission process and 5 postoperative days.