The perceived benefits of complementary therapies in palliative care

Abstract

This study has aimed to provide insight into how patients in palliative care perceive the use of complementary therapies as an adjunct to conventional care. The objectives were: • To explore the influential factors for the use of complementary therapies by patients in a palliative setting • To determine the patients' perceived benefits from using complementary therapies. A quantitative approach was adopted in this study and self-administered, structured questionnaires were utilized to obtain data about the influential factors and perceived benefits of adult male and female patients attending a non-governmental organization that offers complementary therapies as part of palliative care. A sample of 30 patients were conveniently selected, of whom 17 completed the questionnaires, resulting in a 57% response rate. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze data. The study revealed that all of the participants [n=l 7] agreed that complementary therapies had a calming and relaxing effect and all agreed that a wider range of these therapies should be offered by the National Health Service (NHS). Four (24%) were aware that a physician should be consulted before CAM use. Fifty nine percent of the respondents also felt that complementary therapies alleviate both the symptoms and the side effects of their illness. It was highlightened that participants sought information about complementary therapies from books, magazines, leaflets, friends or relatives, internet use, media and recommendation from a general practitioner. Participants expressed the need for more information and knowledge (to lessen misconceptions) regarding the beneficial aspects of complementary therapies and for such therapies to be offered. A number of recommendations were drawn. The lack of adequate knowledge on complementary therapies in palliative care at the local government run hospital was pointed out and ideas for their promotion and the need for more research, both locally and on an international level, to introduce such therapies as part of conventional treatment were included.