Effect of acupressure therapy to reduce chest pain in NSTEMI patients

Abstract

Introduction: Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) describes the sudden ischemia of the myocardium due to loss of blood flow to the heart muscle, causing a cessation of oxygen supply to heart cells. Non-pharmacological management is needed to be applied instead of intervention or combination in reducing pain intensity. Acupressure is done by applying physical pressure at several points on the surface of the body that are places of energy circulation and balance in cases of pain symptoms. Objective: To reduce chest pain in patients with acute coronary syndrome with NSTEMI by using acupressure therapy. Methods: The method used in this study used case studies with pre and post intervention, patients were given acupressure therapy given at the location of the LI4 point located at the back of the right / left hand between the first and second metacarpal bones and almost along the radial bone. Performed for ± 20 minutes in 10 seconds, pressure is applied according to the tolerance level acceptable to the patient and a rest period of 2 seconds. Results: There was a decrease in pain intensity in patients after acupressure therapy. Conclusion: Pressure therapy with appropriate methods and procedures can be an alternative to reduce chest pain in NStemi patients