| Learning Objective #1: Describe the major elements of an Art at the Bedside program for family caregivers of cancer patients | |||
| Learning Objective #2: Cite results of a pilot study to determine results of an Art Infusion (AI) intervention on anxiety, stress, and emotions with family caregivers of cancer patients |
Objectives: Family caregivers of cancer patients are a highly stressed, vulnerable population that are difficult to reach. This pilot study tested the outcomes of an Art Infusion (AI) intervention with family caregivers of cancer patients while patients were undergoing treatment.
Design: A pre-posttest quasi-experimental design tested the hypothesis: Family caregivers will be less stressed, have lower anxiety, and have increased positive emotions following participation in the AI.
Population, Sample, Setting: A convenient sample of 49 family caregivers participated in the study while their family member was undergoing treatment at a regional comprehensive cancer center.
Variables: Before and following the AI, caregivers completed three self-report instruments: the mini-profile of Mental States (POMS) to measure stress, the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) to measure anxiety, and the Affects Balance Scale (ABS) to measure emotions.
Methods: A nurse/artist intervention team took an "ArtKart", a moveable cart with art activity supplies, to the bedside of cancer patients to deliver the AI. The AI consisted of a variety of user-friendly art activities that family caregivers and patients created. The family caregiver completed consent forms, self-report instruments, and participated in the AI for one hour or more. Post-testing followed the AI.
Findings: Highly significant findings indicate that family caregivers achieved relief from stress (p=.000), had lower anxiety (p=.000), and increased positive emotions (p=.000) following participation in the AI.
Conclusions: Over 250 family caregivers (including the research cohort) and patients have participated in the AI and have indicated delight and enthusiasm during creative-art activities. Research participants demonstrated significant changes in stress, anxiety, and emotions.
Implications: Nurses are in leadership positions where they can institute, supervise, and support similar programs in a variety of health facilities. Future research is needed to determine longitudinal effects of such activities.
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