Abstract
PURPOSE: This study investigated the frequency with which nursing support for constipation is provided for patients with cancer during the prognostic months and weeks. METHODS: An online cross-sectional survey was conducted anonymously among registered nurses in palliative care units across Japan. The frequencies of providing six types of nursing support (abdominal massage with essential oils, abdominal acupressure, auricular acupressure, self-management education, abdominal massage, and warm compresses) were surveyed. RESULTS: Data were obtained from 539 nurses (response rate: 22.3%) from 162 facilities. The most frequently provided support was warm compression; the least frequently provided supports were auricular acupressure, abdominal massage with essential oils, and abdominal acupressure. In the prognostic weeks only, self-management education followed these support types. CONCLUSION: The investigation found that the six types of support were rarely implemented for relieving constipation in patients with cancer. Future research should investigate the factors hindering the provision of these supports.