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CS119
The Benefits of Canine Assisted Therapy in the ICU
By Patricia Whitmarsh, Harborview Medical Center, Edmonds, WA
For further information, please contact: pattiw@u.washington.edu
Purpose: To provide a therapeutic benefit through the use of a trained and certified Canine Assisted Therapy animal to ICU patients, family members, and staff.
Description: Because of the increased physical and emotional demands in the ICU, creative solutions in addressing stressors have become necessary. One unique solution is Canine Assisted Therapy. “Man’s best friend” has become “medicine’s best friend”. Some improvements seen have been decreased anxiety in patients as they are calmed by petting the canine who offers unconditional love and patience, offering the opportunity for safe and pleasant touch. Pain unrelieved by traditional analgesia appears to dissipate as the canine sits at the bedside redirecting the patients’ focus of pain to feelings of comfort in response to the canine’s presence. During the withdrawal of care, families requesting a visit with the resident canine experience alleviation to the enormous amount of grief they are feeling throughout bereavement. Patients expressing feelings of loneliness and depression show happier dispositions after a visit from the canine; a time to reminisce occurs. The benefits for the ICU staff are comparable. Staff receives their “canine fix” as the furry friend wags it’s tale with enthusiasm, greeting them after a difficult shift of caring for patients, offering a positive outlet for energy.
Evaluation/Outcomes: Canine Assisted Therapy in our ICU has made a positive impact on many individuals and situations. They have helped to improve health, quality of life, and well-being. Moods and self-esteem have increased. Moral has been boosted. Pain, fear, anxiety, depression, and loneliness have been lessened. Healing and recovery through Canine Assisted Therapy in conjunction with traditional ICU intervention is in its infancy stages of reaching its fullest potential.
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