Music Intervention as a Nonpharmacological Tool in Improving Quality of Life of Palliative Care Patients (S780)

Abstract

•Identify appropriate patients to receive music intervention.•Discuss how to select appropriate pieces to perform for patients and their families. The pain, anxiety, and stress associated with end-of-life care are paramount issues to address for both patients and their families. Reduction of these factors could translate to improved quality of life for patients approaching the end of life. We studied the effect of adding music to standard care for patients receiving palliative care in two hospitals in the Care New England healthcare system. In this mixed quantitative and qualitative study, we implemented live music intervention sessions. Outcomes collected include symptom burden pre- and post-intervention using the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale, opioid use in 24-hour periods before and after the music intervention, as well as qualitative personal narratives of patients’ and families’ experiences with the music. We collected data from 45 patients. Notably, on the ESAS there were significant decreases in pain, anxiety, and feelings of depression, along with significant increase in feelings of well-being. Opioid use in 24-hour periods after the music intervention showed a trend toward decreased usage, when compared the 24-hour period before. Finally, we compiled qualitative personal narratives of patients’ and families’ experiences of the music intervention. We found common themes of comfort, relaxation, escape, and reflection. This pilot project demonstrated the beneficial effects of music in a specific patient population that often struggles with symptom management when only pharmacologic management is used. These data more quantifiably elucidates tangible biological and psychosocial factors that are positively impacted by the intervention.