The use of slow stroke back massage in hospice and palliative care

Abstract

This descriptive, non-randomized study of a convenience sample of eleven subjects describes the use of Slow Stroke Back Massage (SSBM) relative to the hospice/palliative care patient's perception of pain and distress. Data collection included two self-report tools: the Faces Pain Rating Scale and the Distress Scale. Also used \Vas the Datascope Accutor Pulse OximeterTM to obtain data on peripheral pulse rate and peripheral Sp02 levels. Chart review and a demographic form were also used. Data analysis vvas done using descriptive non-parametric statistics. The subjects reported lower pain and distress and demonstrated lower pulse rates after the intervention. This study provides some evidence of the usefulness of this 3- minute independent nursing intervention which can be safely used as a complementary pain and stress relief measure on a hospice/palliative care unit.