P-173 A role for emotional freedom technique in palliative patients? three case reports

Abstract

Background Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) is a simple and common self-help technique, which is also known as ‘Tapping’. It combines elements of exposure therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy and somatic stimulation. It is widespread in the public domain; Meta-analyses show that EFT is effective for anxiety, depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). There are no studies examining the effect of EFT for palliative patients. Case Presentation This case report presents three cases of emotional distress in palliative patients. Case Management Each patient was treated using EFT. Case Outcome Following treatment using EFT, all of the patients’ emotional distress was decreased and within a very short time. Conclusions EFT is a very simple, effective and safe technique. EFT has the potential to be a powerful tool to improve the care of palliative patients who have distressing emotions. Future research on EFT and its effect on distressing emotions in palliative populations and their families is warranted.