Lai, W., Chao, C., Chantal, Yang, W., & Chen, C. (2010). Efficacy of guided imagery with theta music for advanced cancer patients with dyspnea: A pilot study. Biological Research for Nursing, 12(2), 188-197.
The objective of the study was to investigate the effect of guided imagery with theta music on dyspnea in patients with advanced cancer.
The intervention consisted of four periods.
Theta music was provided by a recording designed to stimulate brain waves in the theta range of 4–8 Hz. Music was provided by a standard audio CD with headphones. Dyspnea rating was done in the first and last periods of the intervention, while resting quietly. Physiologic parameters of respiratory rate, heart rate, end tidal CO2, and pulse oxygen saturation were collected at each of the four segments of the intervention. Physiologic parameters were continuously measured using a Tidal Wave 715 capnograph/pulse oximeter, using a finger probe. Patients were interviewed at the end of the session via open-ended questions to elicit how they felt.
The study was conducted in a multi-site, inpatient setting in Taiwan.
Single group repeated measures
Findings support the hypothesis that subjects who receive the guided imagery and theta music intervention experience reduction in heart and respiratory rate and subjective intensity of dyspnea.