In your local children’s hospital musicians can work with resident music therapists to determine the best locations and opportunities for music events. Besides providing music for holidays, musicians could play for a pancake breakfast for families, or play in an atrium where video could be streamed to patient rooms or to areas where patients are immune compromised.
Possible goals/Desired outcomes:
The patient
- experiences significant anxiety and stress reduction, with a lowered heart rate and blood pressure, or slower, deeper breathing. S/he is in a state of relaxed readiness. S/he knows what to expect and is therefore better prepared. S/he can visualize procedures in a positive way. S/he has acquired skills to calm him/herself as needed.
- feels supported: S/he feels a connection to family, time, religion, positive memories or associations and therefore feels less isolated. Emotional needs are recognized and addressed.
- has hope, optimism and improved quality of life.
- has reduced or eliminated depression.
- has a greater sense of control and feels s/he has a more active role in treatment, and can handle whatever happens.
- is able to sleep or rest despite hospital noise and sleep interruptions. Has the ability to resume sleep easily.
- experiences fewer side effects from treatment and faster post-op recovery.
- is willing to do and actually does assigned exercises.
- The patient’s immune system is strengthened.
- The patient’s pain is managed with less medication. Her/his pain threshold is higher.
What are the goals for your session?
For more information on music and wellness, visit http://wellness.pittsburghsymphony.org/