Effect of Auricular Acupressure in Management of Constipation in Palliative Care Patients.

This article focuses on evaluating the efficacy of auricular acupressure (AA) in managing constipation among palliative care patients. In a randomized controlled trial involving 90 patients, AA was applied over four weeks alongside routine care in the experimental group, while the control group received routine care only. Results showed that after 12 days, the AA group experienced a statistically significant increase in daily stool frequency, improved stool consistency, reduced use of laxatives, and decreased constipation-related symptoms measured by the Constipation Assessment Scale. Additionally, AA intervention was associated with reductions in physical and psychosocial symptoms and anxieties, contributing to improved quality of life. The study recommends further research with larger, diverse populations and training for healthcare providers, patients, and caregivers on AA application.