[Music and singing in neonatal and paediatric intensive care]

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Medicine
• Music Therapy
• Neonatal Care

Background:

• Neonatal and paediatric intensive care units (NICUs) can be stressful environments for infants, parents, and healthcare professionals.
• The integration of non-pharmacological interventions is increasingly explored to improve patient and family experiences in critical care settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the benefits of music therapy, specifically singing, for infants, parents, and caregivers in a neonatal and paediatric intensive care unit.
• To assess the impact of musical interventions on the wellbeing of all parties involved.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of a music therapy project centered on singing, facilitated by a professional musician.
• Observation and qualitative assessment of the experiences of infants, parents, and caregivers during music therapy sessions.

Main Results:

• The music therapy sessions were positively received by infants, parents, and caregivers.
• These moments of singing were found to promote the wellbeing of all participants.

Conclusions:

• Singing-based music therapy is a beneficial intervention in neonatal and paediatric intensive care settings.
• Music therapy can positively impact the holistic wellbeing of critically ill children and their families.