Work

Effectiveness of self-administered acupressure intervention in managing constipation of adult psychiatric out-patient – a pilot study

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Aims: To evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a nurse-delivered, self-administered acupressure protocol for psychiatric outpatients with constipation; to examine preliminary effects on constipation severity and constipation-related quality of life; and to document changes in laxative use and psychotropic medication during the intervention. Background: Constipation is common among psychiatric patients receiving second-generation antipsychotics. Pharmacological treatments may cause adverse effects, while existing non-pharmacological approaches are resource intensive. A safe, low-cost, patient-centred, self-administered intervention is needed. Design: This pilot study used a single-group pretest-posttest design with assessments at baseline and immediately post-intervention. Convenience sampling recruited Hong Kong Chinese psychiatric outpatients aged 18-60 years who met Rome IV criteria for constipation and were clinically stable. Methods: Participants attended a three-hour home training session, delivered by a Community Psychiatric Nurse, on a self-administered acupressure protocol, followed by a 10-day home practice period. Feasibility was assessed by adherence. Constipation severity was measured with the Chinese Constipation Assessment Scale, and constipation-related quality of life with the Chinese Patient Assessment of Constipation Quality of Life questionnaire. Laxative use and psychotropic regimens were recorded. Results: Seventy-two participants were recruited. Adherence to the 10-day protocol was 100%. Constipation Assessment Scale scores decreased by 2.28 points, while quality-of-life scores improved by 17.01 points. Reduced laxative reliance was observed without changes in psychotropic regimens. Conclusions: Nurse-delivered training in self-administered acupressure appears feasible, acceptable, and low-cost for managing constipation in psychiatric outpatients, with promising improvements in symptoms and quality of life.

Source: International Journal of Nursing Studies Advances

DOI: 10.1016/j.ijnsa.2026.100712