Effect of P‐6 acupressure on prevention of nausea and vomiting after epidural morphine for post‐Cesarean section pain relief

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Abstract
Background:Nausea and vomiting are important side effects following administration of epidural morphine for post‐Cesarean section pain relief. Stimulation of the P‐6 (Neiguan) acupoint is a traditional Chinese acupuncture modality used for antiemetic purpose; it has been found to be effective. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antiemetic effect of P‐6 acupressure in parturients given epidural morphine for post‐Cesarean section pain relief.Method:In a randomized, double‐blind and controlled trial, sixty parturients receiving epidural morphine for post‐Cesarean section pain relief were investigated. Parturients were allocated to receive the acupressure bands or placebo bands on the P‐6 acupoint bilaterally before the administration of spinal anesthesia and were observed over a 48‐hour study period.Results:The incidence of nausea and vomiting was significantly decreased from 43% and 27% in the control group, to 3% and 0% in the acupressure group, respectively (PConclusion:The results demonstrate that prophylactic use of acupressure bands bilaterally on the P‐6 acupoint can significantly reduce incidence of nausea and vomiting after epidural morphine for post‐Cesarean section pain relief.