Strategies for implementing a guided imagery program to enhance patient experience

Area of Science:

• Complementary and Alternative Medicine
• Psychological Health
• Patient Care

Background:

• Acute care settings present significant emotional and physical stressors for patients and families.
• Hospital experiences can be overwhelming, leading to fear, anger, helplessness, and isolation.
• Guided imagery is a recognized complementary therapy increasingly used in healthcare.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the research supporting guided imagery.
• To outline the indications for guided imagery use.
• To describe the implementation of guided imagery programs in various settings.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of guided imagery research.
• Identification of key therapeutic elements.
• Development of implementation steps for guided imagery programs.

Main Results:

• Guided imagery is a well-researched complementary therapy.
• It offers patients strength, support, and courage.
• It can improve patient experiences and healthcare outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Guided imagery is an effective complementary therapy for managing acute care stress.
• It provides a valuable tool for enhancing patient well-being.
• Implementation strategies can facilitate its use across diverse healthcare environments.