Efficacy of Acupressure on Post-Operative Pain, Anxiety Level and Sleep quality for Abdominal Surgical Patients

Abstract

Background: One of the difficulties faced by surgical patients is pain; 60% of them report postoperative anxiety and mild to moderate discomfort. Acupressure is a complementary and alternative medicine therapy that promotes relaxation and pain relief. Aim: This study aimed to examine the efficacy of acupressure on post-operative pain, anxiety level, and sleep quality in abdominal surgical patients. Study Design: A quasi-experimental study design was utilized to meet the aim of the study. Setting: The study was conducted in the surgical unit, and outpatients at Minia University Hospital. Subjects: 80 patients were split evenly between the control and acupressure groups, with 40 patients in each. Tools: Four tools were used: a structured interviewing questionnaire, a numerical scale of pain, the state trait anxiety inventory, and the Arabic Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Results: There was no significant difference in score of pain, anxiety and sleep quality before intervention among both groups, but post acupressure intervention the score in the Acupressure group was significant reduced pain, anxiety and sleep quality scores compared to control group (p<0.001). Conclusion: Acupressure is a useful intervention for easing pain, calming anxiety, and enhancing sleep quality. Recommendations: The study recommended training nurses to use acupressure as a useful method for controlling pain and anxiety and enhancing sleep quality.