The effects on patient well‐being of music listening as a nursing intervention: a review of the literature

Abstract

• A review of the therapeutic potential of music listening as a nursing intervention was performed. • It revealed that evidence from a variety of fields and clinical specialities existed, including the use of music in critical care environments, surgical settings, dental surgery applications, mental healthcare, pain control, and generally for the control of anxiety and promotion of relaxation. • Due to a number of reasons, including the variety of dependent variables that were measured and methodological issues such as the use of small sample sizes, it is difficult to form any firm conclusions. • Tentatively, the research seems to indicate that there often appear to be positive changes in physiological variables measured, although these changes are not consistent, nor are they always statistically significant. • More confidence can be placed in research that examines psychological variables, as a consistent positive impact on certain measures has been found.

Rhetoric and reality of daily life in English care homes: the role of organised activities

“…By focusing on organised activities relating to music, seen as a fundamental component of human life (Biley 2000), it becomes clear that an activity, which may initially appear suitable to management, Activities Organisers and the care home inspectorate, was not always provided in a format welcomed by older care home residents. Choice and individual interests that would reflect a person-centred or personalised care approach failed to be a component of service delivery.…”

Effects of music on patients undergoing a C-clamp procedure after percutaneous coronary interventions: A randomized controlled trial

“…14,15 In addition, several studies have documented the relaxing effect of music with reduction of HR, RR, and state anxiety in patients with myocardial infarction. [19][20][21][27][28][29][30][31] Recently, music therapy has been extended to a variety of clinical settings, including intensive care units (ICUs), 16 and has been found to be effective in alleviating preoperative anxiety in Chinese 12,17,18 and non-Chinese populations. 7,8,19 Researchers have shown that music can have a calming effect on patients, altering physiologic parameters and reducing discomfort and reported pain levels, thus decreasing the dosage of the analgesics needed.…”

Effects of familiar voices on brain activity

“…In contrast, previous studies show that there are particular sounds that may make patients feel more comfortable and enhance the quality of life. [9][10][11][12][13][14][15] There are limited research effects of familiar voice on the level of consciousness.…”