Playing Music Improves Well-Being of Oncology Nurses

Journal

Applied Nursing Research

Year

2018

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Nurses experience high levels of stress associated with the demands of their workplace. Anxiety and depression symptoms are common in this occupational group and the necessity of supportive actions is vital. This is especially true for nurses working in high intensity and demanding settings such as oncology units. AIM: This study examined the effects of a music intervention on anxiety, depression, and psychosomatic symptoms of oncology nurses. METHODS: Forty-eight oncology nurses, were randomized to either an intervention group (n = 22) attending four consecutive weekly 1-h music classes or a control group with no intervention (n = 26) who maintained their usual lifestyle habits, for one month. Intervention group played and improvised music using percussion instruments. Courses consisted of varied multitask exercises of progressive difficulty, sometimes involving team playing, or individual performances. Depression, anxiety, and physical symptoms were measured before and after the end of the intervention. Anxiety and depression were assessed with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Psychosomatic symptoms were assessed with Pennebaker Inventory οf Limbic Languidness. RESULTS: Anxiety, depression and psychosomatic symptoms significantly reduced for the intervention group at the end of the study. No statistical significant change was observed for the control group in any of the three psychological indicators. CONCLUSION: The findings of our study highlight the fact that music can be a cost-effective resource in developing interventions to reduce stress and improve well-being. Playing music can be the next step for further investigation, since we already know that listening to music is beneficial.

Music and Health Institute Terms

Anxiety; Depression; Healthcare Professionals; Hospital Setting; Playing an Instrument; Recreative Music Methods; Stress; Stress Management; Symptom Management; Wellness and Well-Being ((Outcome))

Indexed Terms

Anxiety; Depression; Stress; Stress; Nurses well-being; Nursing Staff, Hospital; Oncology nurses; Oncology Nursing; Workplace

Study Type

Randomized Controlled Trial; Quantitative Methods

Document Type

Article

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