Music in the care of children and adolescents with cancer: Integrative review

Abstract

Integrative review which goal was to identify the scientific production published about the use of music in the care in health of children and adolescents with cancer from 2004 to 2014. The search was conducted in SciELO, LILACS, BDENF, MEDLINE, PubMed and The Cochrane Library databases. Seven studies were selected, which showed positive effects in the use of the music such as decrease of pain, anxiety, depression and showed that the music can bring benefits to the patient and their families. Two categories were defined on the use and effects of music and the patients’ perspective, parents and professionals about this practice were elaborated. It was concluded that the use of music as a complementary therapy can improve child and adolescent’s physical and mental well-being in face of serious illness and its treatment, and helps to strengthen the bond between the patient and his family, as well as the health care team.