Learning Objective #1: Recognize position of Acupressure in caring premature

Learning Objective #2: Understand methods of premature body weight gain

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Background: The average of premature number is 7-8 % of newborn every year in Taiwan. The methods of increasing the premature body weight need to be explored urgently. Objective: The purpose of this study was to explore the acupressure in improving premature body weight. Methodology:There were 18 subjects enrolled in this quasi-experimental study and were randomized into three groups. The acupressure group with 7 subjects were applied acupressure at acupoints included Kneading Zhongwan(RN-12), Zusanli(ST-36), Yongquan(KI-1), Abdomen rubbing, Spleen meridian and stomach meridian pushing, and Spinal kneading. The massage group with 5 subjects had performed body tactile and extremity kinesthetic stimulation. Those interventions were applied three times a day one hour before feeding and lasted for 15 minutes a time. The control group with 6 subjects was observed for 14 days without any intervention. Research assistant measured the premature body weight and collect the data everyday. The different assistants who had received massage skill training performed the acupressure and tactile simulation in order to have consistence and accuracy of the intervention. Results: The averages of every day premature body weight increased at 27.04 (SD = 10.83) gm in acupressure group, 23.14 (SD = 9.70) gm in massage group, and 22.62 (SD=9.95) in control group. The premature body weight was above 1950 gm that was only found in the acupressure group at the end of study. Conclusions: The premature of acupressure group showed greater body weight gain than those of massage and control groups' in this study. The further advised study was recommended.