Effect of Preoperative Abdominal Effleurage on Postoperative Constipation

Postoperative constipation is a common complication following abdominal surgery and may negatively affect patient comfort, recovery, and quality of life. Non-pharmacological nursing interventions that support bowel motility are therefore of increasing interest in perioperative care. Abdominal superficial effleurage is a gentle massage technique applied to the abdominal surface and is thought to stimulate intestinal peristalsis and promote bowel function. This prospective, randomized controlled study will be conducted with patients scheduled to undergo abdominal surgery. A total of 42 patients will be randomly assigned to either the intervention group (n=21) or the control group (n=21) using a computer-generated randomization method. Patients in the intervention group will receive preoperative training on abdominal superficial effleurage in addition to routine clinical care, while patients in the control group will receive routine clinical care only. To minimize interaction between groups, data from the control group will be collected prior to the intervention group. Abdominal superficial effleurage will be taught during the preoperative period and performed by patients postoperatively. The technique involves gentle stroking movements starting from the right upper quadrant of the abdomen and progressing toward the left lower quadrant. Each session will last approximately five minutes and will be performed one to three times daily during periods when the patient is not experiencing pain. Postoperative constipation will be evaluated on the 10th postoperative day through a telephone interview using the Bristol Stool Form Scale. Study data will be analyzed using appropriate descriptive and inferential statistical methods.