Abdominal massage for constipation relief in stroke patients: A participatory action research

Objective: To improve knowledge and skills of family members and community health volunteers in applying abdominal massage to stroke patients with constipation. Method: A participatory action research, involving family members and community health volunteers to participate in the training and supervision sessions about abdominal massage for constipation relief in stroke patients. Knowledge enrichment was assessed using questionnaire, while the abdominal massage skill was evaluated using direct observation. Qualitative interviews were conducted to evaluate patients’ experiences regarding the intervention program. Results: The program showed the improvement of participants’ knowledge and skills in applying abdominal massage for stroke patients with constipation. Likewise, patients confirmed their constipation relieved after the application of abdominal massage. Conclusion: This study showed that training and supervision sessions about abdominal massage for constipation alleviation in stroke patients are feasible, efficient, and beneficial programs to enhance knowledge and skill of family members and community health volunteers.