{
  "abstract": "Background Touch is an integral part of human interaction. It is manifested relationally, socially, culturally and professionally (Cekaite, Goodwin. Ann. Rev. Anthropol. 2021; 50:203–18).Healthcare makes significant use of touch; it is indispensable for the practice of most healthcare professionals (Cahan, Levine, Chin. N Engl J Med. 2020 Oct 29;383(18):e102).‘Combining touch and relaxation skills for cancer care: The HEARTs process’ by Ann Carter (2019), outlines the ways in which patients, carers and healthcare professionals can use intuitive touch, aromas, patient-centred guided imagery and the sound of the human voice to aid relaxation, reduce anxiety and enhance emotional connection. Estabrook and Morse (J Adv Nurs. 1992;17(4):448-56) categorised different types of touch in nursing practice. Their work supports that of Schoenhoffer (Heart Lung. 1989;18(2):146-54), who compared the use of ‘necessary’ touch (mostly associated with physical tasks, such as washing, dressing as well as moving and handling) with ‘spontaneous’ touch, which conveys nonverbal messages of caring, empathy and presence.Aim To encourage the use of HEARTs techniques with patients, family members and staff both in the community and on our inpatient unit.Method Formal teaching sessions with staff initially which led to informal follow up so they were able to ask any questions/practice. Staff within the inpatient unit setting have referred to hospice Community Nurse Specialists for support, some of the hospice Community Nurse Specialists team have felt confident enough to use independently. Each patient/family have individual requirements which is assessed by the nurse conducting the education.Results Positive feedback and continued use from patients and relatives on the inpatient unit and in the community. Reduced need for medication for anxiety or promote sleep.Conclusion Work so far highlights that communication has a therapeutic influence on patients’ health and that touch is an important component within communication. It’s enhancing connections and allowing patients to give back to their carers/family members. It is encouraging non-medical interventions and emphasising patients’ control with decision-making.",
  "authors": [
    {
      "affiliations": [
        "Weston Hospicecare, Weston-super-Mare, UK"
      ],
      "name": "Katie Williams"
    }
  ],
  "title": "P-48 Using the HEARTs process to reduce anxiety, aid relaxation and enhance emotional connection",
  "uid": "b68e120c-02f8-54d5-8a1e-759c5b753b3f"
}