Effect of music listening therapy on anxiety and intubation times following cardiovascular surgery

Abstract

Anxiety is a factor in anticipation of cardiovascular surgery for individuals undergoing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) and/or valve replacement surgeries (Twiss, Seaver & McCaffrey, 2006). Music listening therapy may reduce anxiety and intubation time. The purpose of this study is to compare the effects of music listening therapy on anxiety and intubation times pre-operatively and post-operatively with two groups of patients who will undergo CABG and/or valve replacement surgeries. This is a replication of Twiss et al.’s study. This study is based on the philosophy of Nightingale’s (1992) work that focuses on a therapeutic environment, supported by music therapy. The sample will include 100 patients, older than 65 years, in an acute care setting, who are scheduled for CABG and/or valve replacement surgery. The Spielberger State Trait Anxiety Instrument will measure anxiety before and after surgery. Intubation time will be measured by length of time in minutes from the time the patient leaves the operating room, until the time of extubation in the intensive care unit (ICU). Findings will provide information for nurse educators in the area of surgery about anxiety reduction and recovery from intubation following cardiac surgery.