The effects of auricular acupressure on blood pressure, stress, and sleep in elders with essential hypertension: a randomized single-blind sham-controlled trial.

This article focuses on a single-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study investigating the effects of auricular acupressure on blood pressure, stress, and sleep quality in elderly Korean women with essential hypertension. Over eight weeks, the experimental group received auricular acupressure on specific acupoints related to hypertension and stress, while the control group received treatment on non-specific points. Results showed significant reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, pulse rate, and stress index, along with improved sleep efficiency measured objectively by Fitbit, although no significant difference was found in self-reported sleep quality via the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. The study suggests auricular acupressure as a potential complementary nursing intervention for managing hypertension, stress, and sleep disturbances in elderly patients, while noting limitations including a female-only sample and lack of long-term follow-up.