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Integrative Reiki for cancer patients: a program evaluation.
Kimberly A Fleisher1, Elizabeth R Mackenzie, Eitan S Frankel
1University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
Integrative Cancer Therapies
|October 10, 2013
Summary
An integrative Reiki volunteer program significantly reduced distress, anxiety, depression, pain, and fatigue in cancer patients. Most participants found Reiki helpful and planned to continue its use, reporting relaxation and enhanced spiritual well-being.
Area of Science:
- Integrative oncology
- Complementary and alternative medicine
- Patient supportive care
Background:
- Cancer patients often experience significant distress, anxiety, depression, pain, and fatigue.
- Integrative therapies are increasingly explored to enhance supportive care in oncology settings.
- Volunteer programs can facilitate the integration of complementary therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the outcomes of an integrative Reiki volunteer program.
- To assess the impact of Reiki on distress, anxiety, depression, pain, and fatigue in cancer patients.
- To explore patient experiences and satisfaction with Reiki sessions.
Main Methods:
- Mixed methods approach utilizing de-identified program evaluation data.
- Quantitative analysis of pre- and post-session distress thermometer scores (paired t-test).
- Qualitative analysis of open-ended participant responses for themes and keywords.
Main Results:
- Over 50% decrease in self-reported distress, anxiety, depression, pain, and fatigue (P < .001).
- 82.6% of participants liked Reiki sessions and found them helpful.
- 73.7% planned to continue using Reiki; 82.2% would recommend it.
- Qualitative data indicated Reiki induced relaxation and enhanced spiritual well-being.
Conclusions:
- The integrative Reiki volunteer program shows promise in supportive cancer care.
- Reiki may be a valuable component of holistic care for cancer patients.
- Further research is warranted to fully understand Reiki's impact on patients, caregivers, and staff.
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