Auricular Acupressure for Reducing Postoperative Emergence Agitation in Preschool Children

Auricular Acupressure for Reducing Postoperative Emergence Agitation in Preschool Children Undergoing Adenoidectomy: A Prospective, Randomized Controlled Trial

This study investigates whether auricular acupressure can reduce postoperative emergence agitation among preschool children following adenoidectomy.

Emergence agitation is a frequent complication after pediatric head and neck surgery. Despite this, evidence for non-pharmacological preventive strategies is limited. This study explores the efficacy of auricular acupressure, a non-invasive Traditional Chinese Medicine technique, in preventing postoperative agitation among these children.

Inclusion Criteria:

• (1) American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status classification of I to III; (2) Children aged 3 to 6 years scheduled for elective adenoidectomy; (3) No damage to the epidermis of the external ear.

Exclusion Criteria:

• (1) Children taking anti-anxiety or antidepressant medications; (2) Children with a history of psychiatric disorders or current psychiatric abnormalities; (3) Children with cognitive deficits or cognitive and intellectual developmental disorders; (4) Children with allergies to auricular acupressure beads; (5) Participation in other clinical trials within the past three months.