Gadsby, J. G., Franks, A., Jarvis, P., & Dewhurst, F. (1997). Acupuncture-like transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation within palliative care: a pilot study. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 5, 13–18.
Acupuncture-like transelectrical nerve stimulation (AL-TENS) with low-frequency, high-intensity stimulation using acupuncture points for emesis and analgesia was delivered by a nurse practitioner in five consecutive daily treatments. The study was divided into three groups: AL-TENS, standard care, and standard care plus placebo.
The study was a pilot study and a double-blind, randomized, controlled trial.
No significant differences were observed, but the study was underpowered and groups were not equivalent in symptoms at baseline.
Nurses should be trained in the use of AL-TENS and identification of acupuncture points. Future trials focused on fatigue are recommended.