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Animal-assisted therapy: an in-depth look
Dimensions of Critical Care Nursing : DCCN
|May 10, 2002
Summary
Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is increasingly used in healthcare. This review covers AAT history, current uses in critical care, and areas needing more research.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Psychology
- Healthcare
Background:
- Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) has seen significant growth in recent decades.
- Its integration into various therapeutic settings is becoming more common.
- The human-animal bond is increasingly recognized for its therapeutic potential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive review of animal-assisted therapy.
- To explore the historical development and evolution of AAT.
- To discuss current applications, with a focus on critical care settings.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of historical and contemporary AAT research.
- Analysis of AAT's goals and established applications.
- Identification of research gaps and future directions.
Main Results:
- AAT has a rich history and diverse applications.
- Current uses extend to specialized areas like critical care.
- Several areas require further investigation to optimize AAT efficacy.
Conclusions:
- Animal-assisted therapy is a well-established and growing field.
- Its application in critical care presents unique opportunities and challenges.
- Further research is essential to refine AAT protocols and expand its benefits.
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