Impact of a standardised music intervention on serum cortisol among sedated, mechanically ventilated adults in the intensive care unit: A randomised controlled trial.
Carmen Fernández-Álvarez, David Zuazua-Rico, Alba Maestro-González et al.
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In 30 seconds
This randomized controlled trial evaluated the impact of a standardized music intervention on serum cortisol levels in sedated, mechanically ventilated adults in the ICU. The study found that serum cortisol decreased by a mean difference of -1.57 μg/dL after the music session, while levels remained stable in the control group, indicating the potential of music to modulate stress responses in critically ill patients.
Key findings
- Serum cortisol decreased by a mean difference of -1.57 μg/dL in the intervention group.
- Cortisol levels remained stable in the control group with a mean difference of -0.14 μg/dL.
- The intervention was independently associated with lower postintervention cortisol levels (β = -1.67).
- Each additional day of IMV was associated with higher cortisol levels (β = 0.65).
Why it matters
The study highlights the potential of nonpharmacological interventions, such as music therapy, to reduce physiological stress in critically ill patients, which may enhance recovery and improve overall patient outcomes in the ICU setting.