Perioperative Integrative Nursing Therapy Program

Abstract

The purpose of the Perioperative Integrative Nursing Therapy Program is to utilize the integrative techniques of Reiki and music therapy to reduce stress and create a healing environment for patients, families and staff. In the perioperative arena, patients experiencing fear, anxiety, and stress related to surgery may require analgesics and anxiolytic medications causing less participation in their healing process which may result in an increased length of stay. Family members also experience elevated levels of fear, anxiety, and stress, especially when witnessing their loved one’s in distress. If fear, anxiety and stress continue, insomnia, poor appetite, depression and potential health risks can result. Stressors for health care providers in the perioperative area may include high patient volume and rapid patient turn around which may increase the incidence of errors; lend to development of compassion fatigue, burn out; and high staff turnover and vacancy rates. The Perioperative Integrative Nursing Therapy Program is comprised of three critical relationships including the care provider’s relationship with patients and their families, with self, and with their colleagues. This fits well with our institution’s care delivery model (RelationshipBased Care). The three components of the program offered in the Perioperative area are: Healing from the Heart; Music from the Heart; and Reiki from the Heart. Healing from the Heart uses music and Reiki therapy to reduce stress by creating a soothing and relaxing environment for patients. Music from the Heart uses recorded and live musical performances in our surgical waiting area for family enjoyment. Reiki from the Heart uses Reiki therapy for staff to reduce stress. FAMILY VISITATION IN THE PACU: IT WORKS! Margaret Farr Young, BSN, MDiv, RN, CPAN, Dorrien M. Smith, BSN, RN Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC