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Learning Objective 1: The learner will be able to understand the importance of utilizing music therapy to help reduce pain.
Learning Objective 2: The learner will be able to find the appropriate resources to implement music therapy in their practice.
Background:
Breast cancer patients can experience significant pain and anxiety with cancer diagnosis and surgical intervention. Using non-pharmacological methods for pain and anxiety reduction is integral in nursing care. Literature suggests music promotes relaxation, decreases anxiety, and improves the perception of pain. Nursing staff can utilize music therapy for patients who have undergone breast reconstruction which can be complementary to standard nursing care. The nurse demonstrates a caring healing approach by incorporating best practices into daily care. The use of music therapy, in addition to standard post-surgical care, may enhance the overall patient experience.
Aims:
The purpose of this study is to explore the effects of music therapy on the reduction of pain and anxiety in breast reconstruction patients. The study will examine whether the use of pharmacological interventions decreased with music therapy implementation.
Methods Strategies:
Over an 8 week timeframe, the interventional cohort will receive digital music play in addition to standard nursing care. The control cohort will receive standard nursing care. Data will be collected using chart audits, medication audits, and qualitative summaries of hospital experience.
Results:
The study is currently in the process of implementation. The results will be finalized and compiled by the end of February 2013.
Conclusions:
It is hypothesized, that adding music therapy will have a significant effect on reducing pain and anxiety in breast reconstruction patients. Additionally, reducing pharmacological intervention will decrease the risk of possible side effects associated with those agents.