NURS FPX 8045 Assessment 4 Interpretation and Synthesis of Scholarly Sources

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Capella University

NURS-FPX 8045 Doctoral Writing and Professional Practice

Prof. Name

Date

Interpretation and Synthesis of Scholarly Sources

The management of pain and associated symptoms in cancer patients remains a significant concern in cancer treatment. Various pain management strategies, when effectively implemented, have the potential to improve the overall well-being of cancer patients and their families. Pain in cancer patients often leads to psychological and physical challenges, including sleep deprivation, fatigue, depression, anxiety, irritability, and impaired cognitive function. Thus, it is crucial to explore alternative pain management strategies that can supplement or even replace traditional methods. One promising approach is music therapy, which has demonstrated effectiveness in enhancing pain management, alleviating psychological distress, and improving the overall quality of life for cancer patients.

Article Summary

1. Music Therapy in the Psychosocial Treatment of Adult Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

This article aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of music therapy across various stages of oncological treatment. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 30 studies were conducted, focusing on the impact of music therapy on adult cancer patients. The results indicated significant improvements in anxiety, depression, quality of life, pain management, spiritual well-being, and stress reduction. The meta-analysis confirmed that music therapy positively impacted psychological well-being, reduced physical symptom distress, and enhanced overall quality of life. The study concludes that music therapy is beneficial in improving health outcomes and can be integrated into different stages of cancer treatment (Köhler et al., 2020).

2. Effects of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Combined with Music Therapy on Pain, Anxiety, and Sleep Quality in Patients with Osteosarcoma

This study investigated the combined effect of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and music therapy on pain, anxiety, and sleep quality in osteosarcoma patients. A total of 101 participants were randomized into intervention and control groups, with the intervention group receiving eight sessions of MBSR and music therapy. Results indicated significant improvements in pain management, reduced anxiety levels, and better sleep quality. The findings suggest that music therapy, in combination with other interventions, can enhance the quality of life for cancer patients (Liu et al., 2019).

3. Effectiveness of Five-Element Music Therapy in Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

This article aimed to assess the effectiveness of five-element music therapy on anxiety, depression, sleep quality, and pain in cancer patients. A meta-analysis of 22 studies involving 2,053 cancer patients revealed that five-element music therapy significantly reduced pain and depression while improving sleep quality. However, it did not have a statistically significant effect on anxiety levels. The study concludes that five-element music therapy positively impacts the quality of life and physical well-being of cancer patients (Yang et al., 2021).

Evidence Synthesis

Pain is a prevalent symptom among cancer patients, significantly affecting their physical, physiological, and psychological states. Music therapy has gained recognition as a valuable intervention for improving mood, reducing anxiety, and alleviating pain. Studies show that music therapy positively influences physiological parameters such as heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration, while also reducing cortisol levels and promoting relaxation. Consequently, music therapy serves as an effective complementary intervention, improving both pain management and overall quality of life in cancer patients.

Safety of Music Therapy

Music therapy is a safe and non-invasive intervention with numerous advantages over traditional pharmacological pain management techniques. Unlike medications that may require injections or lead to side effects, music therapy poses no risk of infection or interference with bodily systems. It also eliminates concerns related to overdosing, underdosing, and drug dependence. Therefore, music therapy is a safe and effective intervention that can be used in conjunction with other pain management strategies to enhance the overall well-being of cancer patients.

Conclusion

The intense pain experienced by cancer patients significantly affects their quality of life. Music therapy has emerged as a promising intervention that not only helps manage pain but also addresses psychological symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and stress. This therapy offers a safe, effective, and non-invasive alternative to conventional pain management techniques. Further research should focus on incorporating music therapy into oncology practices to maximize its benefits for cancer patients.

References

Köhler, F., Martin, Z. S., Hertrampf, R. S., Gäbel, C., Kessler, J., Ditzen, B., & Warth, M. (2020). Music therapy in the psychosocial treatment of adult cancer patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Frontiers in Psychology, 11, 651.

Liu, H., Gao, X., & Hou, Y. (2019). Effects of mindfulness-based stress reduction combined with music therapy on pain, anxiety, and sleep quality in patients with osteosarcoma. Brazilian Journal of Psychiatry, 41(6), 540-545. https://doi.org/10.1590/1516-4446-2018-0346

NURS FPX 8045 Assessment 4 Interpretation and Synthesis of Scholarly Sources

Yang, T., Wang, S., Wang, R., Wei, Y., Kang, Y., Liu, Y., & Zhang, C. (2021). Effectiveness of five-element music therapy in cancer patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 44, 101416.