Implementing Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music to Complement Care Provided in Cancer Homes

With a projected global increase in incidence of cancer the need for supportive cancer care is also on an increase.  Nurses are tasked to care for the psychological and social needs of the patients. However, patients and nurses do not always perceive that these needs are being fulfilled.  Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music (BMGIM) has physical, psychological, social and spiritual effects which can enhance supportive cancer care.  However, limited research could be found on the use of BMGIM in the care of cancer patients in South Africa.

Purpose:

The purpose of the study was to implement and evaluate the effect of BMGIM complementary to the provided care on the physical, psychological and spiritual wellbeing of clients in selected cancer interim homes in Gauteng. A systematic review was conducted to determine methods and effectiveness of BMGIM, best practices were then identified and implemented in selected cancer interim homes, followed by evaluation of the effect of BMGIM.

Methods:

Within the research design of intervention research a prospective intervention study supported by a simultaneous qualitative approach, phenomenology, was conducted. The population of the study was cancer clients admitted to cancer interim homes in Gauteng. The study took place in four phases.  In phase one a systematic review was conducted.  Evidence gathered in phase one informed the implementation of BMGIM in phase two.  Phase three involved evaluation of the effect of BMGIM through administration of a demographic questionnaire, Symptom Distress Scale, Psychological General Well Being Index and Spiritual Index of Well Being.  Qualitative data in the form of session summary form, photographs of drawings and an unstructured interview was also collected. A process of data analysis followed.  

Results:

Data analysis is currently in process. The final report will be written by January 2016. Findings will be presented as themes, categories and sub-categories. The effect of the intervention on physical, psychological and spiritual well-being will be statistically discussed.

Conclusion:

This study will generate scientific knowledge on the effect of BMGIM.  BMGIM may prove to be a therapeutic tool in providing holistic nursing care thus uplifting patient care practices to excellence