Music intervention with physically restrained patients

Abstract

Lack of appropriate alternatives to the use of restraints in hospitals and rehabilitation settings is a major concern of nurses. The purpose of this pilot study was to determine the behavioral effects of music intervention with physically restrained patients. The results demonstrated that the number of positive behaviors increased significantly during the music-listening period, during which patients were not restrained, as compared to their typical restrained status. No differences were found that related to the number of negative behaviors displayed before, during, or after the music intervention. Listening to music of their own choosing may help produce positive behaviors in previously restrained patients; however, further studies are needed to confirm this.