| Learning Objective #1: Discuss implementation of a collaborative creative-arts-intervention (CAI) with patients and loved ones on an oncology in-patient unit | |||
| Learning Objective #2: Describe staff, patient, and family member response to the creative-arts-intervention (CAI) |
Methods: Before implementation, the collaborative team met with the Oncology unit staff to introduce the project, provide an opportunity for the staff to experience the art-making activities and to make suggestions for the successful implementation of CAI. The project was implemented by an artist-in-residence who delivered a variety of art-making/crafts activities via a rolling cart titled, “Art from the Heart, a la Kart”. The artist helps the patient and loved ones to complete activities together or separately depending on the patient's interest and condition. Examples of art-making activities are: making pictures and note-cards with watercolors (monoprints), creating IV pole ribbon gems, stained glass (plastic) designs for window display, and decorating keepsake boxes.
Outcomes: Nurses look forward to the artist's visits and actively engage in recruitment. Staff is highly enthusiastic about the positive changes in patient and family demeanor following the intervention. Two months after implementation, 64 people [(patients (66%), loved ones (33%)] had participated. Even when patients said they did not feel well, they became intrigued by art-making and immersed in the creative process. One patient, experiencing pain that was difficult to control, remarked, “I even forgot I had pain because I was enjoying doing this.” A research project is planned to describe changes in patient satisfaction scores, quality of life measures, and self-transcendence following CAI implementation. The program has expanded with an “Arts in Healthcare” initiative adopted hospital-wide to promote excellence in patient care.