The process of Straight, deep and firm stroking type of back massage is called

Appeared in: RRB Nsg. Superintendent-20 July 2019 (Shift-2)

Explanation

The question describes a 'Straight, deep and firm stroking' massage.
Effleurage is the formal term for massage strokes that are long, gliding, and continuous.
This technique can be applied with varying pressure, from light and superficial to deep and firm, matching the description in the question.
It is used to spread lotion, warm up muscles, and promote relaxation and circulation.

Option A: This is a general description of a movement, not a specific, named massage technique. Circular motions are typically part of the 'Friction' technique.
Option C: Kneading, or Petrissage, involves lifting, squeezing, and rolling the muscle tissue. It is not a stroking motion.
Option D: Friction involves deep, localized, circular or transverse pressure applied to a specific spot to break down adhesions. It is not a long, gliding stroke.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Massage Techniques in Nursing as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Back massage is a fundamental nursing comfort measure used to promote relaxation, relieve muscle tension, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep in patients.
Understanding the different massage techniques allows the nurse to tailor the intervention to the patient's needs, for example, using gentle effleurage for relaxation versus targeted friction for a muscle knot.
Nurses must be aware of contraindications for massage, such as over areas of skin breakdown, inflammation, infection, fractures, or in patients with bleeding disorders or deep vein thrombosis.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key descriptive words in the question stem: 'Straight, deep and firm stroking'.
The most important action word is 'stroking'.
Next, evaluate each option based on its definition in massage therapy.
Recall or determine that 'Effleurage' is the technical term for stroking movements.
Recognize that 'Kneading' (Petrissage) and 'Friction' describe different types of movements (squeezing and rubbing, respectively).
'Circular massage' is a description of a motion, not a primary technique, making it less precise than the other options.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nursing Fundamentals Taylor p. 258-260

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Potter Perry 12e Part 5 pp. 155-157, 156-158

Practise the full RRB Nsg. Superintendent-20 July 2019 (Shift-2)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.