Acupressure for patients with diarrhea

Abstract

Diarrhea is characterized by the production of feces with increased frequency (three times a day or more) and a change in consistency to soft or watery, which may occur with or without blood or mucus. Managing diarrhea is not straightforward; while providing fluids that contain essential electrolytes is crucial for preventing dehydration, administering anti-diarrheal medications inappropriately can be dangerous. In nursing practice, several non-pharmacological techniques can be utilized for patients with diarrhea, one of which is acupressure. The aim of acupressure therapy at points CV12 and ST25 is to reduce the frequency of diarrhea, while stimulating point P6 is intended to alleviate nausea. This research was conducted at PKU Muhammadiyah Temanggung Hospital on a patient diagnosed with gastroenteritis. The results of applying acupressure therapy indicated a reduction in the frequency of diarrhea in the patient.

Keywords: Diarrhea; acupressure; nursing care; paediatric nursing; prevention