Evaluation of a Reiki Volunteer Program within Two Cancer Infusion Centers

Abstract

Context: Reiki is a biofield therapy from Japan currently used in many US hospitals. Evidence supports Reiki's effectiveness for addressing cancer and treatment-related symptoms such as pain and anxiety. However, no study to date has assessed changes in nausea following Reiki received during infusion treatments or assessed patients from multiple healthcare locations. Objectives: To evaluate a Reiki program for outpatients with cancer and other chronic illnesses receiving infusion treatments (e.g., chemotherapy) at two University Hospitals infusion centers. Methods: Participants in the outpatient infusion clinics completed Edmonton Symptom Assessment System measures of pain, fatigue, anxiety, nausea, and well-being before and after receiving a 15–20-minute Reiki session during their infusion. Data analysis included means and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of single-session effects on measures where the pre-session score was ≥1 and analysis of post-session comments. Results: Between March 2022 and February 2024, 392 Reiki sessions were provided to 268 unique patients (mean age 63.3 ± 13.9, 57.5% female, 71.6% White, 26.5% Black/African American). Participants reported clinically significant mean [95% CI] improvements (≥1 unit) in pain (-1.78 [-2.38, -1.18]), fatigue (-1.33 [-1.85, -0.82]), anxiety (-2.09 [-2.68, -1.50]), nausea (-2.30 [-2.95. -1.62), and wellbeing (1.37 [0.95, 1.79]). Participants also commented that the Reiki session was a positive experience helpful for promoting relaxation and symptom reduction. Conclusions: Outpatients receiving Reiki during infusion reported clinically significant improvements in all symptoms, high levels of satisfaction, and a qualitatively positive healing experience. More research is needed to assess long term changes following Reiki, including with an expanded program at additional healthcare locations.