Implementing Music Therapy for Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery Patients: A Quality Improvement Initiative

The purpose of this project is to introduce and implement music therapy as an evidence-based pain management protocol focused on reducing postoperative pain levels among Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) patients in the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) of the project site. The clinical question guiding this initiative is: In adult patients undergoing a VATS procedure, does the implementation of music therapy lead to lower postoperative pain scores in the PACU compared to no intervention within an 8-week timeframe? The investigator will ask eligible patients their immediate pain scores upon arrival into the PACU and then start music of patient's choice via over-the-ear headphones. Pain scores will be rechecked 30 minutes after implementation of music therapy. The standard of care pain medications and/or usual care will not be withheld or altered after surgery in lieu of music therapy.