that PC6 stimulation has comparable effects to traditional
antiemetics — metoclopramide, cyclizine, prochlorperazine,
droperidol, ondansetron and dexamethasone — in PONV preven-
tion.
Acupressure also uses the PC6 acupoint, but is less invasive, as it
uses firm pressure to massage the forearm near the wrist instead of
acupuncture's stimulation of the acupoint with an extremely thin nee-
dle. Acupressure offers an additional advantage of being utilitarian.
Almost any member of your staff can apply it, while a licensed
acupuncturist is required for acupuncture. Acupressure can even be
taught to the patients and their family members.
As with Reiki and meditation, these therapies are often used as
supplements to traditional medications. They could, however, serve
as replacements, depending on what's best for an individual patient.
When I use these therapies in my practice, I look at the whole per-
son and create an individualized treatment plan. There might be
some other aspect of their being that is grossly out of balance that
could be relieved with pressure applied on another acupoint.
Many people come to my acupuncture practice with interest in
optimizing the condition of their bodies before surgery and enhanc-
ing their recoveries afterward. Acupuncture can help them meet
those goals.
• Aromatherapy. Lavender, ginger, spearmint, peppermint and
other essential oils have well established positive effects on nausea
originating from the stomach Qi. Surgery can disrupt the body's natu-
ral balance and reverse the stomach's Qi, causing it to push things up
and out instead of down and in. Aromatherapy can be used to settle
the Qi to restore its natural function.
Stomach or intestinal issues aren't always the result of post-op
nausea, however. PONV is a most often a reaction to general anes-
7 6 • O U T PA T I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E • M A Y 2 0 2 0