Effect of Proper Enteral Feeding Technique and Abdominal Massage on Selected Gastrointestinal Complications among Stroke Patients

Abstract

Background: Despite utilization of enteral feeding is an important determinant for stroke patients' recovery, gastrointestinal complications still may occur. The basic goals of nursing care are to prevent complications. Therefore, utilizing techniques such as abdominal massage with proper enteral feeding has been proved to improve various digestive functions. The aim of the study: To evaluate the effect of proper enteral feeding technique and abdominal massage on selected gastrointestinal complications among stroke patients. Research design: Quasi-experimental research design was utilized. Subjects: A purposive sample including (60) adult stroke patients classified equally into two equal groups study and control group (n = 30).Setting: Conducted at the Minia University Hospital's Stroke department in the Minia governorate. Tools: Four tools were utilized to collect data, the first tool is a structured interview assessment sheet that includes two parts (socio-demographic characteristics and medical data) the second tool includes three parts for assessing selected gastrointestinal complications. The third and fourth tools for abdominal massage and proper enteral feeding techniques. Results: The gastric residual volume difference between the study and control group subjects was statistically significant (P<0.0001) on the third-day post-intervention. The difference between the two groups regard to the distension and vomiting occurrence was statistically significant relation on the third day (P<0.01, P<0.013) respectively. Conclusion: The study findings concluded that the study group has reduced mean average of gastric residual volume, the distention, and vomiting episodes occurrence than the control group with significance on the third day. Recommendations: The in-service educational training program for nurses that emphasizes the purposes and benefits of proper enteral feeding technique and abdominal massage is very important.