Feature Story

Health Center Today, November 4, 2010

Promoting Healing – Nursing Integrative Therapy Program

By Carolyn Pennington

Edward Dailey

The Department of Nursing is offering a new service for hospitalized patients that is already receiving positive benefits. The Nursing Integrative Therapy Program aims to promote healing by addressing problems patients commonly experience in the hospital such as trouble sleeping, difficulty moving or stiffness, constipation and anxiety.

"The services will help patients relax, feel more comfortable as they heal, and help them regain their health faster," explains Edward Dailey, a registered nurse with more than 20 years of experience.

Dailey, a certified integrative medicine therapist, assesses the patient’s needs and then determines how personalized integrative therapies can help. There are several services offered at no additional cost to the patient.

Yoga/Movement: Patients of all ages and fitness levels can benefit from gentle stretching – often done right in the hospital bed – meditation techniques, breathing exercises, and restorative posture. The approaches help patients feel more rested, comfortable and less sore during their hospital stay.

Reiki: Research has shown that therapeutic touch can help the healing process. Through Reiki, the practitioner translates healing energy through the palms, leaving patients feeling relaxed and restored.

Nutritional Advice: Learning the best strategy to fuel your body is crucial for a healthy recovery. Smart, nutritious and tasty choices can help keep patients strong.

Aromatherapy: Used topically or by inhalation, essential oils such as lavender and peppermint are believed to help with relaxation, stress management, pain management and the reduction of hospital-wide odors.

Contemplative Care: Patients are invited to meditate and reflect using universal spiritual principles. Periods of quiet can help enhance healing and relaxation during a patient’s hospital stay.