ABSTRACT
ObjectiveTo compare the effects of two methods for the treatment of delayed defecation of neonatal meconium. Methods Sixty-seven neonates with delayed defecation of neonatal meconium were divided into experiment group (n=37) and control group (n=30). The former group was managed with abdominal massage followed by glycerol enema and the latter with abdominal massage followed by anus stimulation.Then the groups were compared in terms of the time for initial defecation of meconium,the volume of defecation,exhanstion time for defecation,abdominal distention and vomiting and serum bilirubin within 7 days.Result The treatment group was superior to the control one in terms of time for initial defecation of meconium,the volume of defecation, exhanstion time for defecation (P<0.05) and the incidences of abdominal distention,vomiting and serum bilirubin within 7 days were significantly lower than the control group (P<0.05).Conclusions The method of glycerol enema combined with abdominal massage is more effective for promoting defecation of neonatal meconium than the method of anus stimulation.It can reduce the incidence of abdominal distension,vomiting and pathological jaundice.