The determination of the effect of music on pain, anxiety, and vital findings in cancer patients treated in palliative care centres: a cluster quasi-experimental study
TL;DR
A 30-minute maqam-based instrumental music session shows potential as a stabilizing, non-pharmacological adjunct for acute symptom management in palliative cancer patients, and findings provide preliminary evidence.
Abstract
Abstract Aim: This study aimed to determine the effect of a single-session music intervention on pain intensity, state anxiety, and vital signs in cancer patients receiving palliative care. Background: While music therapy is recognized as a non-pharmacological complementary tool, its simultaneous effect on both physiological and psychological parameters requires robust methodological evaluation within specific palliative care settings. Methods: A cluster quasi-experimental pre-test/post-test control group design was conducted across two palliative care centres. The sample comprised 32 patients (Intervention: 16, Control: 16). To prevent treatment contamination, allocation was systematically performed at the room level rather than the individual level. The intervention group received a 30-minute session of instrumental Turkish classical music (Hicaz and Buselik maqams) via headphones, while the control group rested in bed. Data were collected using a Patient Description Form, Visual Analog Scale (VAS), State–Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and a Physiological Parameter Monitoring Form. Linear Mixed Models (LMM) analyzed group × time interactions to account for clustering effects and baseline socio-demographic imbalances. Findings: Analysis revealed significant group × time interactions Post-intervention, the intervention group showed statistically significant reduction in pain intensity and state anxiety scores compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Vital signs (pulse rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure) demonstrated significant stabilization, alongside a significant increase in oxygen saturation (SpO2) in the intervention group. A 30-minute maqam-based instrumental music session shows potential as a stabilizing, non-pharmacological adjunct for acute symptom management in palliative cancer patients. Due to the small sample size and cluster-allocation, findings provide preliminary evidence. Clinical trial number: NCT07262151 (ClinicalTrials.gov). Retrospectively registered 3 December 2025.