Effects of massage therapy with almond oil on level of bilirubin among neonates with jaundice

The present study was conducted to assess the effectiveness of massage therapy with almond oil on level of bilirubin among the neonates with jaundice receiving phototherapy in selected NICUs of sangli city. Quasi experimental research design was adopted for this study. The sample comprised of 40 neonates who were receiving phototherapy which were equally divided into experimental and control group. Sample was selected using Non-probability purposive sampling technique. Neonates receiving phototherapy and who was hemodynamically stable were included in the study. Neonates who are sick, having hypersensitivity to almond oil and with tracheoesophageal fistula, Diaphragmatic Hernia and Mega colon were excluded from the study. Data collection was done using observational checklist which included parameters such as level of bilirubin, defecation frequency, total feeding amount and weight.

Even though the study showed that there was no significant difference in the level of bilirubin after applying massage therapy with almond oil, but there was significant change in defecation frequency. Also the mean score of bilirubin in experimental group showed reduction than the control group. So the researcher concluded the study that the massage therapy with the almond oil got positive effect on bilirubin level.