Interactive group drumming (IGD) in the hospital:
An effective music intervention for hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) patients
Abstract
Hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) patients often experience prolonged hospitalization and significant stressors. This hospital inpatient oncology unit1 pilot study utilized percussion instruments to promote wellness. Thirty-five patients were scheduled for four interactive group drumming (IGD) in-room sessions during their hospital treatment. Investigators met patients to facilitate a 30-minute drumming session; measures of energy, mood, relaxation, distress, pain, and anxiety were administered before and after each session. Mean scores on all measures improved from pre to post IGD. 100% of participants reported that the drumming sessions increased their satisfaction with their hospital stay. Patient energy improved in 81% of the sessions, mood improved in 88%, relaxation increased in 84%, and 49% of the sessions resulted in decrease in pain. Patients’ distress decreased in 63%, and anxiety decreased in 68% of the sessions.
This simple and distinctive complementary therapy was incorporated into inpatient care and could be integrated into cancer care on a regular basis.
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