A retrospective audit exploring the use of relaxation as an intervention in oncology and palliative care

The benefits of relaxation in cancer care have been well documented within the literature, with the majority of research being undertaken by nursing professionals. However, evidence of the effectiveness of relaxation interventions by occupational therapists is lacking. Occupational therapists are in an ideal situation to provide information and practical relaxation sessions. Although in numerical terms, the outcome of relaxation interventions is small, functional outcome related to quality of life and independence in activities of daily living is immeasurable. This article reports the findings of a retrospective audit exploring relaxation-specific referrals to occupational therapy, and identifies effectiveness of a variety of different techniques currently employed within this specific programme. Patients with a primary diagnosis of breast cancer were the most frequently seen, and this prevalence is reflected in current national statistics. Similarly, those between 50 and 59 years of age comprised the largest group. Guided visualization was the most commonly used technique, although there appeared to be very little change in perceived tension between all the techniques. Further study of the impact relaxation has on occupational performance would be worthwhile.